In orbit space transportation & recovery system

摘要

An In Orbit Transportation & Recovery System (IOSTAR(TM)) ( 10 ) is disclosed. One preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a space tug powered by a nuclear reactor ( 19 ). The IOSTAR(TM) includes a collapsible boom ( 11 ) connected at one end to a propellant tank ( 13 ) which stores fuel for an electric propulsion system ( 12 ). This end of the boom ( 11 ) is equipped with docking hardware ( 14 ) that is able to grasp and hold a satellite ( 15 ) and as a means to refill the tank ( 13 ). Radiator panels ( 16 ) mounted on the boom ( 11 ) dissipate heat from the reactor ( 19 ). A radiation shield ( 20 ) is situated next to the reactor ( 19 ) to protect the satellite payload ( 15 ) at the far end of the boom ( 11 ). The IOSTAR(TM) ( 10 ) will be capable of accomplishing rendezvous and docking maneuvers which will enable it to move spacecraft between a low Earth parking orbit and positions in higher orbits or to other locations in our Solar System.