Systematic tracking, harvesting and in-space disposal of space debris

摘要

The embodiments of invention relates to the in-orbit clearance and disposal of space debris within approved geospatial orbital regions using a wide assortment of apparatus and devices encompassing trawler harvesting, lasers cannons and remote piloted handling methods. All events are guided and managed by integrated United States Air Force (USAF) geospatial software and database systems to locate, legally verify, and then remove and transport collected space debris to a disposal facility in high geostationary earth orbit (GEO). These clearing methods and apparatus are coordinated and orchestrated in real-time event according to USAF procedures and policies and the Field Operations Commander.

主权项

1. Dedicated stand-up Program Management structure within the Joint Space Operations Center (JSOC) having management of a in-situ continuous and enduring clearance and disposal operation, said initial operational capabilities comprising of:
Tracking and Surveillance software and databases from multiple sources are providing continuous two-way communications of real-time geospatial location data to the said harvesting apparatus and devices guiding each system to a debris object for clearance. Modeling, Simulation and Training (M, S&T) provides an expansion of current JSOC modeling environment. The said harvesting apparatus and devices are remotely piloted unmanned robotic vehicles in permanent geosynchronous orbit and under the control by the JSOC team. With the said modeling, Simulation and Training is a perpetual requirement to ensure proper and safe clearance of debris and training in the use of these vehicles. Protection is provided by the said harvesting apparatus and devices are remotely piloted unmanned robotic vehicles. As sensors and tracking determined that a specific large space debris or uncontrolled satellite is de-orbiting quickly the situational awareness warns of the potential hazards. Remotely piloted unmanned robotic vehicle devices are deployed to collect and return it to the said disposal area or to orbital foundry. Mitigation of any space debris while in orbit has specific protocol, procedures, legal and international implications to follow prior to removal. With the said embodiments of this invention, the actual removal and total mitigation is embedded within the JSOC management software systems guiding remotely unmanned robotic vehicle(s) devices and other apparatus to collect and dispose of debris following appropriate protocol, or placed in a dump orbit. Transportation Pipeline is established with a fleet of trans-orbital freight carriers to carry afloat and return with harvesting devices, sensors, personnel and specific debris cargo for the said embodiments of this invention.