Problems and potentialities of space rendezvous

Abstract

The paper gives an analysis of rendezvous operations in space, as in the soft joining of a ferry vehicle to an orbiting space station or other target, and explores the potentiality of rendezvous in accomplishing certain space missions. The significant phases of rendezvous are examined in a sequential sense, in which problems pertinent to each phase are assessed and results of recent research studies are given. Discussed are such aspects as appropriate injection or launch trajectories for rendezvous, suitable launch times, use of midcourse guidance logic, and manned and automatic terminal guidance schemes. Attention is also given to the use of special purpose orbits, such as parking orbits, to corrective maneuvers, to fuel consumption and penalties, and to the use of different sensors (electronic, optical, etc.) in performing the various phases. The paper concludes with an examination of the mission capabilities and benefits that may be brought about through use of rendezvous. © 1961.