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Giving Spacecraft a Second Life: The Rise of On-Orbit Servicing & Repair Space exploration is facing a critical challenge: the ever-growing number of defunct satellites and spacecraft orbiting our planet. This "space junk" poses a significant threat to operational satellites and future missions, creating a need for innovative solutions. Enter on-orbit servicing and repair (OOSR), a revolutionary concept that's poised to transform space operations and extend the lifespan of valuable assets. OOSR involves sending specialized robotic or human-crewed spacecraft to rendezvous with existing satellites in orbit. These "space surgeons" can then perform a variety of tasks, from replacing faulty components and refueling tanks to repairing damaged solar panels and even upgrading outdated systems. Why is OOSR so important? Extended Lifespans:...

A Tangled Web: Exploring the Potential of Technology Tether-Based Capture Systems The vastness of space presents both incredible opportunities and daunting challenges. One of those challenges is capturing and manipulating objects in orbit, from defunct satellites to potential threats like space debris. While traditional methods like robotic arms and harpoons exist, a new breed of capture system is emerging: the technology tether-based capture system. This innovative approach utilizes tethers – long, strong cables composed of advanced materials – to snare and control targets in orbit. Imagine a giant fishing line, but instead of catching a fish, it's reeling in a satellite or piece of space junk. How Does It Work? Technology tether-based capture systems leverage a combination of physics and...