Space Robotic System for in Space Servicing of Unmanned Spacecraft Applications (GSC-15002)

Abstract:
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) has a modular design and was meant to be serviceable in-orbit by astronauts using the Space Shuttle Following the Columbia disaster and the grounding of the Shuttle fleet, HSTs planned servicing mission was cancelled with no future plans to upgrade the observatory. The objective of the HST Development Team was to conceive a mission to changeout scientific instruments, batteries, gyros, and extend the life of the observatory without the aid of astronauts or the Shuttle, in addition to a safe de-orbit of HST. The solution was a Robotic Servicing System to take care of free flying spacecraft problems in space. Although the first time development of a full up Robotic Servicing System can service the Hubble, and then can service other future systems.

Type of Offer: Licensing



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