Automated Rendezvous and Docking of Spacecraft

by Wigbert Fehse

Overview

This definitive reference for space engineers provides an overview of the major issues governing approach and mating strategies, and system concepts for rendezvous & docking/berthing (RVD/B). These concerns are addressed and explained in a way that aerospace engineers, students and even newcomers to the field can acquire a basic understanding of RVD/B.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521824927
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	11/13/2003
Series:	Cambridge Aerospace Series , #16
Pages:	516
Product dimensions:	7.09(w) x 10.04(h) x 1.26(d)

About the Author

Formerly Head of the Navigation and Guidance Section of ESA and ESA's leading rendezvous expert, Wigbert Fehse has worked on a large number of high profile international projects including the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) and Crew Return Vehicle (CRV) currently under development for the International Space Station.

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. The phases of a rendezvous mission; 3. Orbit dynamics and trajectory elements; 4. Approach safety and collision avoidance; 5. The drivers for the approach strategy; 6. The onboard rendezvous control strategy; 7. Sensors for rendezvous navigation; 8. Mating systems; 9. Space- and ground-system setup; 10. Verification and validation; Appendix A. Motion dynamics; Appendix B. Rendezvous strategies of existing vehicles; Appendix C. Rendezvous vehicles of the ISS scenario; Appendix D. Nomenclature.

Editorial Reviews

"This book is described as being the definitive reference for space engineers on all issues related to rendevous and docking of spacecraft, and I would tend to agree. It draws together a wealth of information on the subject, from basic principles through to detailed examples." Aeronautical Journal, Dr. Peter Roberts, Cranfield University

From the Publisher