Use of water sprays in space rescue and retrieval operationsRecent experiments involving liquid jets exhausting into a vacuum have led to significant conclusions regarding techniques for detumbling and despinning spacecraft during retrieval and rescue operations. A fine water spray directed toward a tumbling or a spinning object may quickly form ice over its surface. The added mass of water will absorb angular momentum and slow the vehicle. As this ice sublimes it carries momentum away with it. Thus, a complete detumble or despin is possible by simply spraying water at a disabled or spinning vehicle. Experimental and analytical results are presented on performance and physical properties. Although these are of a preliminary nature, the results are quite promising. Example situations are considered to illustrate potential applications.
Document ID
19760063189
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Kaplan, M. H. (Pennsylvania State Univ. University Park, PA, United States)
Freesland, D. C. (Pennsylvania State University University Park, Pa., United States)