Space debris utilization system for sustainable spacecraft propulsion

Abstract

A spacecraft 8 for propulsion utilising space debris as a fuel source. Space debris 1 can be harnessed by capturing with a manipulator arm 2. Laser 3 (e.g. robotically driven pulsed laser) can ablate the debris to produce thrust. Space junk may include defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, collision fragments, other objects posing a threat to operational satellites and spacecraft orbiting Earth. The manipulator arm may precisely position space debris towards the laser for ablation, generating thrust as an ejecta plume, in order for the spacecraft to then reach subsequent debris. If debris mass is insufficient to reach the next debris, spacecraft propulsion system 6 may be employed. Excess debris mass may be stored within the spacecraft for future use. Rotational moment may be nullified by creating a counterthrust on the debris surface.

Images