Aeronautics and astronautics – Spacecraft – Attitude control
Patent
1989-10-31
1992-03-10
Barefoot, Galen
Aeronautics and astronautics
Spacecraft
Attitude control
B64G 164
Patent
active
050944100
ABSTRACT:
A method and apparatus for joining vehicles such as spacecraft is disclosed that utilizes a capture and berthing technique. The coupling apparatus comprises a first coupling unit having a generally rigid extensible structure that is mountable to a first spacecraft and a second coupling unit having a probe-like structure mountable to a second spacecraft which is cooperable with the extensible structure to effect vehicle coupling. The first and second spacecraft are maneuvered so as to generally align the coupling apparatus thereon, after which the extensible structure is extended to engage and capture the probe-like structure. Following capture of the second coupling unit by the extensible structure, the extensible structure is subsequently retracted to effect berthing of the first and second spacecraft. Once the spacecraft coupling units have been captured and berthed in the foregoing manner, they can be structurally joined by appropriate coupling apparatus.
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Photograph of a proposed USSR docking system displayed at the Paris Air Show, Summer 1989.
English language translation of a technical and sales brochure on the Universal Androgynous Peripheral Docking Assembly (APDA) provided by the Scientific Commercial Association (NPO), Energyia, for the U.S.S.R. Ministry of General Machine Building (undated).
Barefoot Galen
Space Industries, Inc.
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