Research/ IN-SPACE SERVICING
From Design to Deorbit: A Solar-Electric Autonomous Module for Multi-Debris Remediation
Om Mishra, Jayesh Patil, Sathwik Narkedimilli, G Srikantha Sharma, Ananda S, and Manjunath K Vanahalli
Perception & State EstimationOpenAlex keyword: extended Kalman filter · Motion Planning & NavigationOpenAlex keyword: autonomous navigation
arXivcs.DC · cs.ROOpenAlexSpace Satellite Systems and Control · Spacecraft Dynamics and Control · Spacecraft Design and Technology
The escalating accumulation of orbital debris threatens the sustainability of space operations, necessitating active removal solutions that overcome the limitations of current fuel-dependent methods. To address this, this study introduces a novel remediation architecture that integrates a mechanical clamping system for secure capture with a high-efficiency, solar-powered NASA Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) and autonomous navigation protocols. High-fidelity simulations validate the architecture's capabilities, demonstrating a successful retrograde deorbit from 800 km to 100 km, <10m position Root Mean Square Errors (RMSE) via radar-based Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) navigation, and a 93\% data delivery efficiency within 1 second using Delay/Disruption Tolerant Network (DTN) protocols. This approach significantly advances orbital management by establishing a benchmark for renewable solar propulsion that minimizes reliance on conventional fuels and extends mission longevity for multi-target removal.
Comments: 6 pages, 13 Figures, 2 tables