Future in-orbit servicing operations in the space traffic management context
Roberto Opromolla, Д. А. Гришко, John Auburn, Riccardo Bevilacqua, Luisa Buinhas, Joseph Cassady, Markus Jäger, Marko Janković, Javier Rodríguez, Maria Antonietta Perino, Benjamin Bastida-Virgili
Abstract
This paper provides a concise yet informative overview on future operations in near-Earth space including in-orbit servicing, assembly, manufacturing, and the use of space tugs, in the frame of the space traffic management context. After providing a general definition of these activities, the significant impact that they will have in the space domain from an economic perspective is highlighted. Past achievements in terms of orbital demonstrations are then recalled, leading to the identification of the most critical technological challenges which need to be addressed to improve reliability, frequency, and robustness of servicing operations. A summary of the most critical next steps and recommendations is finally provided.