Abstract
A novel astronautical launch system based on a spinning twin-mass-tether concept is proposed. Because of its analogy to the pirouette maneuver of figure skaters, it is called a Pirouette Launch System. It relies on a conversion of rotational motion, accumulated through a low-power and long-term energy source, into a high-power axial motion. The low power would come from sources such as two solar batteries, solar sails, or a conventional rocket propulsion. The self-balanced twin-tether system may also be modified into a Pirouette Energy Storage System in the outer space.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 406-407 |
Number of pages | 2 |
Journal | JBIS - Journal of the British Interplanetary Society |
Volume | 68 |
Issue number | 12 |
State | Published - Dec 2015 |
Keywords
- Energy storage
- Spacecraft launch system
- Tether system
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Aerospace Engineering
- Space and Planetary Science