Automated Rendezvous and Docking of Spacecraft (Cambridge Aerospace Series) (Cambridge Aerospace Series, Series Number 16)

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. This book is a reference for space engineers on all issues related to rendezvous and docking/berthing (RVD/B). It 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?; and How can the proper functioning of all rendezvous related equipment, systems and operations be verified before launch? The book also 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 definitive reference for space engineers on all issues related to rendezvous and docking/berthing (RVD/B), this book provides an overview of the major issues governing approach and mating strategies, and system concepts for rendezvous and docking/berthing. Written for aerospace engineers, students and newcomers to the field.