Definition and testing of an architectural tradespace for on-orbit assemblers and servicers

This paper proposes a set of eight architectures that fully span the design tradespace of on-orbit assembler and servicer satellites. A framework is presented that defines the tradespace for servicing and assembly architectures across the three axes of distributed vs. centralized functionality, proximity operation vs. fully captured operations, and integrated vs. external servicing/assembly satellites. A qualitative analysis of the architectural tradespace details the advantages and disadvantages of each of the core architectures. In addition, the paper discusses current and future hardware-in-the-loop testing of various architectures in a sequence of iterative and incremental tests in ground and microgravity environments as part of the Synchronized Position Hold Engage and Reorient Experimental Satellites (SPHERES) facility. New hardware is being sent to the International Space Station to provide quantitative validation of the previously qualitative trades within this space. The paper describes how the results from this testing and the planned test sequences for the remaining architectures will reduce risk for on-orbit assembly and servicing missions