Method for deploying multiple spacecraft

Details Method for deploying multiple spacecraft Method for deploying multiple spacecraft

2007-05-22

2007-05-22

Clement, Michelle (Department: 3641)

Aeronautics and astronautics

Spacecraft

Spacecraft formation, orbit, or interplanetary path

C244S158500, C244S158600

Reexamination Certificate

active

10884901

ABSTRACT:
A method for deploying multiple spacecraft is disclosed. The method can be used in a situation where a first celestial body is being orbited by a second celestial body. The spacecraft are loaded onto a single spaceship that contains the multiple spacecraft and the spacecraft is launched from the second celestial body towards a third celestial body. The spacecraft are separated from each other while in route to the third celestial body. Each of the spacecraft is then subjected to the gravitational field of the third celestial body and each of the spacecraft assumes a different, independent orbit about the first celestial body. In those situations where the spacecraft are launched from Earth, the Sun can act as the first celestial body, the Earth can act as the second celestial body and the Moon can act as the third celestial body.

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