Large-scale shielding structures in low earth orbits

• Published in: Acta astronautica Vol. 109; pp. 153 - 161
• Main Authors: Panov, D.V., Silnikov, M.V., Mikhaylin, A.I., Rubzov, I.S., Nosikov, V.B., Minenko, E.Yu, Murtazin, D.A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01-04-2015
• Subjects: Digital models; Meteoroids; Protective screen; Space debris; Spacecraft; Protective screen; Space debris; Meteoroids; Spacecraft; Digital models
• ISSN: 0094-5765; 1879-2030
• DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2014.12.009

The problems involved in the design-engineering digital simulation of large-size transformable-screen constructions for protecting spacecraft and equipment from space debris and meteoroids were considered. The engineering principles used to improve the design and efficiency of protective screens are presented. The use of embedded matrix transducers located all over the composite material used for armor tiles is proposed for the construction of protective clad screens; this approach enables efficient detection of damaged areas of the protective screen, the assessment of the level of damage, and the prediction of damage to spacecraft and equipment structures.
•Innovative spacecraft protective unit was developed.•Principles for guidance and control of rotating shield segments were developed.•Effectiveness of different control strategies was evaluated.•Digital simulators of the innovative design-engineering solutions were developed.