Automated Rendezvous and Docking of Spacecraft

The definitive reference for space engineers on all issues related to rendezvous and docking/berthing (RVD/B).

Wigbert Fehse (Author)

9780521824927, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 13 November 2003

516 pages, 245 b/w illus.
25.5 x 18 x 3.2 cm, 1.31 kg

Review of the hardback: 'The aim of this book is to comprehensively cover the techniques and issues associated with automatic rendezvous and docking. It achieves this objective … a good quality hardback … can be useful to both students on higher courses in, for example, space mission engineering and also to professional engineers working in the field.' Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers

The definitive reference for space engineers on rendezvous and docking/berthing (RVD/B) related issues, this book answers key questions such as: How does the docking vehicle accurately approach the target spacecraft? What technology is needed aboard the spacecraft to perform automatic rendezvous and docking, and what systems are required by ground control to supervise this process? How can the proper functioning of all rendezvous-related equipment, systems and operations be verified before launch? The book provides an overview of the major issues governing approach and mating strategies, and system concepts for rendezvous and docking/berthing. These issues are described and explained such that aerospace engineers, students and even newcomers to the field can acquire a basic understanding of RVD/B. The author would like to extend his thanks to Dr Shufan Wu, GNC specialist and translator of the book's Chinese edition, for his help in the compilation of these important errata.

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.

Subject Areas: Aerospace & aviation technology [TRP]