Aeronautics and astronautics – Spacecraft – Attitude control
Patent
1989-12-11
1991-10-22
Barefoot, Galen
Aeronautics and astronautics
Spacecraft
Attitude control
244165, 244135C, 244 93, B64G 124
Patent
active
050588346
ABSTRACT:
The balance of a spin-balanced spacecraft may be dynamically adjusted by moving a liquid between or among containers spaced about the spin axis. The transfer of liquid is accomplished by controllable heaters associated with each container, for heating that container from which liquid is to be transferred to increase the pressure and drive out liquid. A spacecraft for accomplishing this method includes a balance sensing arrangements such as a gyroscope and logic for determining which container or containers are to be emptied and for controlling the heaters. Weight is minimized by accomplishing the transfer of liquid among fuel containers by way of manifolds which also supply fuel to thrusters.
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Barefoot Galen
General Electric Company
Meise William H.
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