Debris removal system, station satellite, debris removal satellite, ground control device, method for removing debris, method for control, and program

Abstract

To provide a debris removal system that can continuously remove a lot of space debris.SOLUTION: A debris removal system includes a station satellite. The station satellite accommodates a plurality of debris removal satellites and feeds energy to the debris removal satellites.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a debris removal system, a station satellite, a debris removal satellite, a ground control device, a debris removal method, a control method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the increase in space debris moving in space near the Earth has become a problem. Space debris is, for example, man-made objects (satellites, rocket parts, etc.) that are orbiting the Earth in space and are not functioning. If such space debris collides with an operational satellite, the satellite may cease to function.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses technology for a debris removal system that removes space debris. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-172555 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In removing the above-mentioned space debris, there is a demand for technology that can continuously remove a large amount of space debris.

[0006] An object of this disclosure is to provide a debris removal system, a station satellite, a debris removal satellite, a ground control device, a debris removal method, a control method, and a program that solve the above problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, a debris removal system includes a station satellite, the station satellite including an accommodation mechanism for accommodating a plurality of debris removal satellites, and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the disclosure, a station satellite includes an accommodation mechanism for accommodating a plurality of debris removal satellites, and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites.

[0009] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a debris removal satellite comprises a propulsion mechanism that applies propulsion force to the debris removal satellite for moving through space, and a return control means that controls at least the propulsion mechanism to return to a station satellite.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a ground control device comprises a connection means for communicating with a station satellite, the station satellite having a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites, and a station satellite control means for controlling the station satellite, and the station satellite control means determines a debris removal satellite among the plurality of debris removal satellites that performs removal processing on a specific debris moving in space, and controls the station satellite based on the determination.

[0011] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, a ground control device accommodates a plurality of debris removal satellites and includes a connection means for communicating with the debris removal satellites launched from a station satellite that supplies energy to the debris removal satellites, and a debris removal satellite control means for controlling the debris removal satellites, and the debris removal satellite control means performs return control on the debris removal satellites returning to the station satellite.

[0012] According to a sixth aspect of the disclosure, a debris removal method includes providing a plurality of debris removal satellites and providing energy to said debris removal satellites.

[0013] According to a seventh aspect of the disclosure, a debris removal method includes controlling at least a propulsion mechanism to move through space using the propulsion mechanism and return to a station satellite.

[0014] According to an eighth aspect of this disclosure, a control method communicates with a station satellite having a storage mechanism for storing multiple debris removal satellites and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites, determines one of the multiple debris removal satellites that will perform removal processing on a specific debris moving in space, and controls the station satellite based on the determination.

[0015] According to a ninth aspect of this disclosure, a control method includes a station satellite that accommodates multiple debris removal satellites, communicates with the debris removal satellite launched from a station satellite that supplies energy to the debris removal satellites, and performs return control on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite.

[0016] According to a tenth aspect of the disclosure, a program causes a computer of a station satellite to function as a means for housing a plurality of debris removal satellites and a means for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites.

[0017] According to an eleventh aspect of the disclosure, the program causes a computer of a debris removal satellite to function as a means for applying propulsion force to the debris removal satellite for moving through space using a propulsion mechanism, and a means for controlling at least the propulsion mechanism to return to a station satellite.

[0018] According to a twelfth aspect of this disclosure, the program causes a computer of a ground control device to function as a means for communicatively connecting with a station satellite having a storage mechanism for storing multiple debris removal satellites and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites, and a means for determining, among the multiple debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a specific debris moving through space, and for controlling the station satellite based on the determination.

[0019] According to a thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, the program causes a computer of a ground control device to function as a means for communicating with and connecting to a debris removal satellite launched from a station satellite that houses multiple debris removal satellites and supplies energy to the debris removal satellites, and a means for performing return control on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite. Effect of the Invention

[0020] It is possible to provide technology that enables the continuous removal of large amounts of space debris. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a first schematic diagram of a debris removal system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a second schematic diagram of a debris removal system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a station satellite and a debris removal satellite according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an overview of a ground control device according to one embodiment of the disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of a control device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 illustrates a process flow for a station satellite according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates an aspect of a debris removal system according to an embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 illustrates a process flow for a debris removal system according to one embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 illustrates an aspect of a debris removal satellite according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 illustrates a process flow for a debris removal satellite according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 illustrates an aspect of a ground control device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 illustrates a process flow of a ground control device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 illustrates an aspect of a ground control device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 illustrates a process flow of a ground control device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] FIG. 1 is a first schematic diagram of a debris removal system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The debris removal system 100 includes at least a station satellite 1. The station satellite 1 accommodates a debris removal satellite 2. The station satellite 1 may accommodate a plurality of debris removal satellites 2. The debris removal system 100 may be defined as including the station satellite 1 and the debris removal satellite 2.

[0023] The debris removal satellite 2 is launched into space by a satellite launch vehicle 50 launched from a launch site on Earth. The launched debris removal satellite 2 docks with the station satellite 1. During this docking, the station satellite 1 accommodates the debris removal satellite 2 using an accommodation mechanism. The debris removal satellite 2 accommodated by the station satellite 1 leaves the station satellite 1 at a predetermined timing, travels through space, and performs the process of removing space debris 60. When the debris removal satellite 2 completes the instructed process of removing space debris 60, it propels itself toward the station satellite 1 and returns.

[0024] The station satellite 1 supplies power to the debris removal satellite 2. Alternatively, the station satellite 1 replenishes fuel (energy) to the debris removal satellite 2. Alternatively, the station satellite 1 performs maintenance on the debris removal satellite 2. The supply of fuel (propellant) etc. by the station satellite 1 to the debris removal satellite 2 is one aspect of maintenance. As one aspect of maintenance of the debris removal satellite 2, the station satellite 1 may repair equipment on the debris removal satellite 2, install additional equipment on the debris removal satellite 2, or remove unnecessary equipment from the equipment installed on the debris removal satellite 2.

[0025] Such a debris removal system 100 can continuously remove a large amount of space debris 60 floating in space. In addition, such a debris removal system 100 eliminates the need to launch the debris removal satellite 2 multiple times, reducing the labor required to maintain the debris removal system 100 and reducing launch costs. In addition, such a debris removal system 100 allows the debris removal satellite 2 to enter the atmosphere together with the space debris 60 and be used multiple times for removal processing without burning up and disappearing, thereby reducing the cost of maintaining the debris removal system 100.

[0026] The removal process may be to guide the space debris 60 to enter the atmosphere by slowing down the speed of the space debris 60 orbiting the Earth in outer space. Another removal process may be to cut the space debris 60 with a laser or the like to reduce the weight of a chunk of space debris 60, thereby guiding the space debris 60 to change its orbital position. The removal process in the present disclosure may be any process for removal, such as changing the orbit of the space debris 60, entering the atmosphere, or guiding it away from the Earth to shift its orbit.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a second schematic diagram of a debris removal system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 2, the debris removal system 100 has a ground control device 3 that communicates with at least one of the station satellite 1 or the debris removal satellite 2. The ground control device 3 communicates wirelessly with the station satellite 1 to control the station satellite 1. The ground control device 3 communicates wirelessly with the debris removal satellite 2 to control the debris removal satellite 2. The station satellite 1 and the debris removal satellite 2 may also be connected by wireless communication, so that one of them can transmit information to the other and perform some kind of control.

[0028] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an overview of the station satellite and the debris removal satellite. The station satellite 1 comprises a storage mechanism 11, a supply mechanism 12, a maintenance mechanism 13, a power generation system 14, a power storage device 15, a communication device 16, a control device 17, and a fuel tank 18.

[0029] The accommodation mechanism 11 includes a mechanism for accommodating the debris removal satellite 2 on the station satellite 1. For example, the accommodation mechanism 11 includes a connection unit for docking the debris removal satellite 2 with the station satellite 1, a communication connection unit for communicatively connecting the debris removal satellite 2 with the station satellite 1, and a device for launching or detaching the debris removal satellite 2 from the station satellite 1.

[0030] The supply mechanism 12 includes a power supply device that supplies energy to the debris removal satellite 2. The maintenance mechanism 13 refuels the debris removal satellite 2, repairs equipment on the debris removal satellite 2, installs additional equipment on the debris removal satellite 2, and removes unnecessary equipment from the equipment installed on the debris removal satellite 2. The maintenance mechanism 13 may include a robot arm or the like to perform these operations of supply, repair, installation, removal, etc.

[0031] The power generation system 14 is equipped with a solar power generation panel. The power storage device 15 stores the electricity output by the power generation system 14 from the solar power generation panel. The communication device 16 wirelessly communicates with the debris removal satellite 2 and the ground control device 3. The fuel tank 18 stores fuel used for thrust by the debris removal satellite 2. The control device 17 controls the accommodation mechanism 11, the supply mechanism 12, the maintenance mechanism 13, the power generation system 14, the power storage device 15, the communication device 16, and the fuel tank 18.

[0032] The debris removal satellite 2 includes a propulsion mechanism 21, a debris removal device 22, a power storage device 23, a fuel tank 24, a communication device 25, and a control device 26.

[0033] The propulsion mechanism 21 applies a propulsive force for moving through space to the debris removal satellite 2. As an example, the propulsion mechanism 21 converts xenon, which is an example of a propellant used as fuel, into plasma and extracts ions from this plasma to accelerate the debris removal satellite 2. The propulsion mechanism 21 may be of any type.

[0034] The debris removal device 22 may be, for example, an arm mechanism that grasps the space debris 60, or a laser that cuts the space debris 60. The power storage device 23 stores electric power. The fuel tank 24 stores propellant used by the propulsion mechanism 21. The communication device 25 wirelessly communicates with the station satellite 1 and the ground control device 3. The control device 26 controls the propulsion mechanism 21, the debris removal device 22, the power storage device 23, the fuel tank 24, the communication device 25, etc.

[0035] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an overview of the ground control device. The ground control device 3 includes a control device 31 and a communication device 32. The control device 31 controls the station satellite 1 and the debris removal satellite 2. The communication device 32 communicates with the station satellite 1 or the debris removal satellite 2 by wireless communication.

[0036] FIG. 5 is a hardware configuration diagram of the control device. 5, the control device 17 of the station satellite 1 is a computer equipped with various hardware components, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, other storage devices 104, and a communication module 105. The control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 and the control device 31 of the ground control device 3 may also be equipped with part or all of a similar hardware configuration.

[0037] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a processing flow of the station satellite. Next, the processing flow of the station satellite 1 will be described. The control device 17 of the station satellite 1 receives an accommodation signal of the debris removal satellite 2 from the ground control device 3 (step S101). The accommodation signal includes the identification information of the debris removal satellite 2, the scheduled accommodation time, and the like. The control device 17 attempts to communicate with the debris removal satellite 2 that can be identified by the identification information, based on the scheduled accommodation time and the communication instruction from the ground control device 3. When the debris removal satellite 2, which has been launched by the satellite launch vehicle 50 and separated from the satellite launch vehicle 50, approaches the station satellite 1, the communication device 16 of the station satellite 1 and the communication device 25 of the debris removal satellite 2 are connected for communication. The control device 17 of the station satellite 1 and the control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 perform attitude control and position control while communicating with each other. The control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 controls the propulsion mechanism 21 to approach the station satellite 1, and docks with a predetermined accommodation mechanism 11 of the station satellite 1 from a position corresponding to the accommodation mechanism 11. The accommodation mechanism 11 accommodates the debris removal satellite 2 (step S102). The procedure and method for the debris removal satellite 2 to dock with the station satellite 1 and for the accommodation mechanism 11 to accommodate the debris removal satellite 2 may use known techniques. The station satellite 1 can similarly accommodate multiple debris removal satellites 2.

[0038] The control device 17 of the station satellite 1 instructs the supply mechanism 12 to supply power to the accommodated debris removal satellite 2 based on the control signal received from the ground control device 3. The supply mechanism 12 supplies the power stored in the power storage device 15 to the power storage device 23 of the debris removal satellite 2 (step S103). The control device 17 of the station satellite 1 instructs the maintenance mechanism 13 to supply fuel to the accommodated debris removal satellite 2 based on the control signal received from the ground control device 3. The maintenance mechanism 13 supplies fuel such as propellant stored in the fuel tank 18 to the fuel tank 24 of the debris removal satellite 2 (step S104). Note that in cases where the debris removal satellite 2 has a spare fuel tank 24, fuel may be supplied from the fuel tank 24 of the debris removal satellite 2 to the fuel tank 18 of the station satellite 1. In this way, even if the fuel stored in the fuel tank 18 decreases due to the supply of fuel to the multiple debris removal satellites 2 accommodated by the station satellite 1, the fuel tank 18 can be replenished with fuel.

[0039] The control device 31 of the ground control device 3 generates plan information for the debris removal satellite 2 (step S105). The plan information may include, for example, an identifier of the space debris 60, the time and the position of the space debris 60 at that time, the orbit to move to the position of the space debris 60, an identifier of the debris removal satellite 2 that performs the removal process on the space debris 60, an identifier indicating the removal process method, the separation time of the debris removal satellite 2, and the return orbit to the station satellite 1 after the debris removal satellite 2 has performed the removal process. When the control device 31 generates the plan information automatically or manually by the administrator, it instructs the communication device 32 to transmit the plan information. The communication device 32 transmits the plan information to the station satellite 1 (step S106). The control device 31 of the ground control device 3 may transmit the plan information to the debris removal satellite 2.

[0040] The control device 17 of the station satellite 1 receives the plan information from the ground control device 3. Based on the plan information, the control device 17 sets the plan information, such as the identifier of the space debris 60, the time and the position of the space debris 60 at that time, the orbit to move to the position of the space debris 60, the identifier of the debris removal satellite 2 that performs the removal process on the space debris 60, an identifier indicating the removal process method, the separation time of the debris removal satellite 2, and the return orbit to the station satellite 1 after the debris removal satellite 2 has performed the removal process (step S107). The plan information may include, for multiple space debris 60, the identifier of the space debris 60, the time and the position of the space debris 60 at that time, the orbit to move to the position of the space debris 60, the identifier of the debris removal satellite 2 that performs the removal process on the space debris 60, an identifier indicating the removal process method, and the like. When the debris removal satellite 2 directly receives the plan information from the ground control device 3, the control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 may record information on the settings included in the plan information in a memory unit or the like of the device itself.

[0041] The control device 17 controls the separation of the debris removal satellite 2 with the identifier included in the plan information based on the separation time included in the received plan information. The accommodation mechanism 11 separates the debris removal satellite 2 based on an instruction from the control device 17 (step S108). The control of the separation may be mainly performed by the debris removal satellite 2.

[0042] The control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 controls the propulsion mechanism 21 based on the planning information to move to the specified space debris 60 (step S109). The control device 26 controls the debris removal device 22 to perform the removal process of the space debris 60 (step S110). The control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 detects the completion of the removal process of the space debris 60 (step S111).

[0043] The planning information may include, for multiple space debris 60, the identifiers of the space debris 60, the time and the position of the space debris 60 at that time, the orbit to move to the position of the space debris 60, the identifier of the debris removal satellite 2 that performs the removal process on the space debris 60, an identifier indicating the removal process method, etc. In such a case, the control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 may control the propulsion mechanism 21 to move to the next space debris 60 each time the removal process of one space debris 60 is completed, based on the processing order of each space debris 60 to be removed, which is included in the planning information.

[0044] When the removal process of the last space debris 60 to be removed is completed, the control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 controls the propulsion mechanism 21 based on the return orbit included in the plan information to move to the station satellite 1 (step S112). The control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 may connect to the ground control device 3 using the communication device 25 to communicate with the ground control device 3 and inquire about the return orbit from the ground control device 3. When an inquiry is made from the ground control device 3, the control device 26 transmits reply information to the inquiry (such as the return orbit) to the debris removal satellite 2. This is an example of a process in which the ground control device 3 performs return control on the debris removal satellite 2 returning to the station satellite 1.

[0045] When the debris removal satellite 2, which has moved based on the return orbit, approaches the station satellite 1, the communication device 16 of the station satellite 1 and the communication device 25 of the debris removal satellite 2 are connected for communication. The control device 17 of the station satellite 1 and the control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 communicate with each other to perform attitude control and position control. The control device 26 of the debris removal satellite 2 controls the propulsion mechanism 21 to approach the station satellite 1 and dock with a predetermined accommodation mechanism 11 of the station satellite 1 from a position corresponding to the accommodation mechanism 11. The accommodation mechanism 11 accommodates the debris removal satellite 2 (step S113). The procedure and method for the debris removal satellite 2 to dock with the station satellite 1 and for the accommodation mechanism 11 to accommodate the debris removal satellite 2 may use known technology. The station satellite 1 can similarly accommodate multiple debris removal satellites 2.

[0046] The control device 17 of the station satellite 1 instructs the supply mechanism 12 to supply power to the returned debris removal satellite 2 based on the control signal received from the ground control device 3. The supply mechanism 12 supplies the power stored in the power storage device 15 to the power storage device 23 of the debris removal satellite 2 (step S114). The control device 17 of the station satellite 1 instructs the maintenance mechanism 13 to supply fuel to the returned debris removal satellite 2 based on the control signal received from the ground control device 3. The maintenance mechanism 13 supplies fuel such as propellant stored in the fuel tank 18 to the fuel tank 24 of the debris removal satellite 2 (step S115). Based on the control of the control device 17, the maintenance mechanism 13 may use a robot arm to repair equipment on the debris removal satellite 2, install additional equipment on the debris removal satellite 2, and remove unnecessary equipment from the equipment installed on the debris removal satellite 2.

[0047] The processing of the station satellite 1, debris removal satellite 2, and ground control device 3 in the debris removal system 100 provides a technology that allows the continuous removal of a large amount of space debris. Furthermore, the processing of the station satellite 1, debris removal satellite 2, and ground control device 3 in the debris removal system 100 eliminates the need to launch the debris removal satellite 2 many times, reducing the labor required to maintain the debris removal system 100 and reducing launch and other costs. Furthermore, the processing of the station satellite 1, debris removal satellite 2, and ground control device 3 in the debris removal system 100 allows the debris removal satellite 2 to enter the atmosphere together with the space debris 60 and not burn up and disappear, allowing it to be used for removal processing many times, reducing the cost of maintaining the debris removal system 100.

[0048] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a debris removal system. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the process flow of the debris removal system. The debris removal system 100 includes a station satellite 1. The station satellite 1 may include a receiving mechanism 11 and a supply mechanism 12. The accommodation mechanism 11 accommodates a plurality of debris removal satellites 2 (step S201). The supply mechanism 12 supplies energy to the debris removal satellite 2 (step S202).

[0049] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a debris removal satellite. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the processing flow of the debris removal satellite. The debris removal satellite 2 comprises a propulsion mechanism 21 and a return control means 260 . The propulsion mechanism 21 applies a propulsive force to the debris removal satellite 2 for moving through space (step S301). The return control means 260 controls at least the propulsion mechanism to return to the station satellite 1 (step S302).

[0050] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a ground control device. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a processing flow of the ground control device. The ground control unit 3 may comprise a connection means 320 and a station satellite control means 311 . The connection means 320 is communicatively connected to the station satellite 1, which includes a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites 2 and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites 2 (step S401). The station satellite control means 311 determines, from among the multiple debris removal satellites 2, a debris removal satellite 2 that will perform removal processing on predetermined debris moving in space, and controls the station satellite 1 based on the determination (step S402).

[0051] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a ground control device. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a processing flow of the ground control device. The ground control unit 3 may comprise a connection means 320 and a debris removal satellite control means 312 . The connection means 320 accommodates a plurality of debris removal satellites 2 and communicates with the debris removal satellites 2 launched from a station satellite 1 that supplies energy to the debris removal satellites 2 (step S501). The debris removal satellite control means 312 performs return control on the debris removal satellite 2 returning to the station satellite 1 (step S502).

[0052] The programs executed by the station satellite 1, the debris removal satellite 2, and the ground control device 3 may be programs for implementing some of the above-mentioned functions. Furthermore, they may be so-called differential files (differential programs) that can implement the above-mentioned functions in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system.

[0053] The debris removal system 100, the station satellite 1, the debris removal satellite 2, and the ground control device 3 of this disclosure have been described above, but this disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of this disclosure within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0054] Note that some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0055] (Appendix 1) A station satellite, the station satellite comprising: a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites; a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellite; A debris removal system comprising:

[0056] (Appendix 2) The station satellite includes: A maintenance mechanism for maintaining the functions of the debris removal satellite; 2. The debris removal system of claim 1, comprising:

[0057] (Appendix 3) In the station satellite, The supply mechanism supplies the electric power generated by the power generation system to the debris removal satellite. 3. A debris removal system as described in appended claim 2.

[0058] (Appendix 4) a plurality of debris removal satellites; The debris removal satellite, a propulsion mechanism for applying a propulsive force for moving through space to the debris removal satellite; a return control means for controlling at least the propulsion mechanism for returning to the station satellite; 4. The debris removal system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising:

[0059] (Appendix 5) The debris removal satellite, A processing completion determination means for determining completion of the debris removal processing, The return control means controls at least the propulsion mechanism after it is determined that the debris removal process is completed in order to return to the station satellite. 5. The debris removal system of claim 4.

[0060] (Appendix 6) A ground control device is provided, A station satellite control means for controlling the station satellite, The station satellite control means determines, from among the plurality of debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a predetermined debris moving in the space, and controls the station satellite based on the determination. 6. The debris removal system of claim 5.

[0061] (Appendix 7) A ground control device is provided, A debris removal satellite control means for controlling the debris removal satellite, The debris removal satellite control means performs return control on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite. 6. The debris removal system of claim 5.

[0062] (Appendix 8) a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites; a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellite; A station satellite equipped with

[0063] (Appendix 9) A maintenance mechanism for maintaining the functions of the debris removal satellite; A station satellite according to claim 8, comprising:

[0064] (Appendix 10) The supply mechanism supplies the electric power generated by the power generation system to the debris removal satellite. A station satellite as described in Appendix 9.

[0065] (Appendix 11) a propulsion mechanism that applies a propulsive force to the debris removal satellite to move through space; a return control means for controlling at least the propulsion mechanism for returning to the station satellite; A debris removal satellite comprising:

[0066] (Appendix 12) A processing completion determination means for determining completion of the debris removal processing, The return control means controls at least the propulsion mechanism after it is determined that the debris removal process is completed in order to return to the station satellite. 13. The debris removal satellite described in Appendix 11.

[0067] (Appendix 13) A connection means for communicating with a station satellite, the connection means comprising a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites; A station satellite control means for controlling the station satellite, The station satellite control means determines, from among the plurality of debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a predetermined debris moving in space, and controls the station satellite based on the determination. Ground control equipment.

[0068] (Appendix 14) A station satellite that accommodates a plurality of debris removal satellites and supplies energy to the debris removal satellites is connected by a connection means for communicating with the debris removal satellites. A debris removal satellite control means for controlling the debris removal satellite, The debris removal satellite control means performs return control on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite. Ground control equipment.

[0069] (Appendix 15) The station satellite is It houses multiple debris removal satellites, Provides energy to the debris removal satellite Debris removal methods.

[0070] (Appendix 16) The station satellite includes: Maintain the functionality of the debris removal satellite 16. The debris removal method of claim 15.

[0071] (Appendix 17) In the station satellite, A power generation system supplies the generated electric energy to the debris removal satellite. 17. The debris removal method of claim 16.

[0072] (Appendix 18) a plurality of debris removal satellites; The debris removal satellite, A thrust force for moving through space is applied to the debris removal satellite, Controlling the return of the station to the satellite 18. The debris removal method according to any one of claims 15 to 17.

[0073] (Appendix 19) The debris removal satellite, Determine when the debris removal process is complete; and controlling at least the propulsion mechanism after it is determined that the debris removal process is completed in order to return to the station satellite. 19. The debris removal method of claim 18.

[0074] (Appendix 20) The ground control device Among the plurality of debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a predetermined debris moving in the space is determined, and the station satellite is controlled based on the determination. 20. The debris removal method of claim 19.

[0075] (Appendix 21) A ground control device is provided, A debris removal satellite control means for controlling the debris removal satellite, The debris removal satellite control means performs return control on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite. 20. The debris removal method of claim 19.

[0076] (Appendix 22) The debris removal satellite A thrust force for moving through space is applied to the debris removal satellite, Controlling the return to the station satellite Control methods.

[0077] (Appendix 23) Determine when the debris removal process is complete; and controlling at least the propulsion mechanism after it is determined that the debris removal process is completed in order to return to the station satellite. 23. The control method of claim 22.

[0078] (Appendix 24) The ground control device A station satellite is connected in communication with the station satellite, the station satellite having a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites; Among the plurality of debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a predetermined debris moving in space is determined, and the station satellite is controlled based on the determination. Control methods.

[0079] (Appendix 25) The ground control device A station satellite that houses a plurality of debris removal satellites and supplies energy to the debris removal satellites is connected to the debris removal satellites in communication with the station satellite; A feedback control is performed on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite. Control methods.

[0080] (Appendix 26) The station satellite's computer, a means for accommodating and controlling a plurality of debris removal satellites; means for supplying and controlling energy to said debris removal satellite; A program that functions as a

[0081] (Appendix 27) A computer of the station satellite, means for maintaining and controlling the functions of said debris removal satellite; 27. The program according to claim 26, which causes the program to function as

[0082] (Appendix 28) A computer of the station satellite, A means for controlling the supply of electric power generated by a power generation system to the debris removal satellite; 28. The program according to claim 27,

[0083] (Appendix 29) The debris removal satellite's computer, A return control means for controlling the return to the station satellite; A program that functions as a

[0084] (Appendix 30) A computer of the debris removal satellite, functioning as a processing completion determination means for determining completion of the debris removal processing; The return control means controls at least the propulsion mechanism after it is determined that the debris removal process is completed in order to return to the station satellite. 29. The program according to claim 29.

[0085] (Appendix 31) The ground control computer, a connection means for communicating with a station satellite, the connection means comprising a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites; a station satellite control means for controlling the station satellite; The station satellite control means determines, from among the plurality of debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a predetermined debris moving in space, and controls the station satellite based on the determination. program.

[0086] (Appendix 32) The ground control computer, A station satellite that accommodates a plurality of debris removal satellites and supplies energy to the debris removal satellites is connected to a communication means for communicating with the debris removal satellites. a debris removal satellite control means for controlling the debris removal satellite; The debris removal satellite control means performs return control on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite. program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 1···Station Satellite 2. Debris removal satellite 3. Ground Control Unit 11. Containment mechanism 12...Feeding mechanism 13. Maintenance Organization 14 Power Generation System 15. Energy storage device 16. Communication equipment 17. Control device 18. Fuel tank 21...propulsion mechanism 22. Debris removal equipment 23. Energy storage device 24...Fuel tank 25. Communication equipment 26...Control device (feedback control means 260, processing completion determination means) 31: Control device (station satellite control means 311, debris removal satellite control means 312) 32 Communication device (connection means 320)

Claims

1. A station satellite, the station satellite comprising: a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites; a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellite; A debris removal system comprising:

2. The station satellite includes: A maintenance mechanism for maintaining the functions of the debris removal satellite; The debris removal system of claim 1 , comprising:

3. In the station satellite, The supply mechanism supplies the electric power generated by the power generation system to the debris removal satellite. The debris removal system of claim 2.

4. a plurality of debris removal satellites; The debris removal satellite, a propulsion mechanism for applying a propulsive force for moving through space to the debris removal satellite; a return control means for controlling at least the propulsion mechanism for returning to the station satellite; The debris removal system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising:

5. The debris removal satellite, A processing completion determination means for determining completion of the debris removal processing, The return control means controls at least the propulsion mechanism after it is determined that the debris removal process is completed in order to return to the station satellite. The debris removal system of claim 4.

6. A ground control device is provided, A station satellite control means for controlling the station satellite, The station satellite control means determines, from among the plurality of debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a predetermined debris moving in the space, and controls the station satellite based on the determination. The debris removal system of claim 5.

7. A ground control device is provided, A debris removal satellite control means for controlling the debris removal satellite, The debris removal satellite control means performs return control on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite. The debris removal system of claim 5.

8. a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites; a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellite; A station satellite equipped with

9. A maintenance mechanism for maintaining the functions of the debris removal satellite; 9. The station satellite according to claim 8, comprising:

10. The supply mechanism supplies the electric power generated by the power generation system to the debris removal satellite. A station satellite as claimed in claim 9.

11. a propulsion mechanism that applies a propulsive force to the debris removal satellite to move through space; a return control means for controlling at least the propulsion mechanism for returning to the station satellite; A debris removal satellite comprising:

12. A processing completion determination means for determining completion of the debris removal processing, The return control means controls at least the propulsion mechanism after it is determined that the debris removal process is completed in order to return to the station satellite. The debris removal satellite according to claim 11.

13. A connection means for communicating with a station satellite, the connection means comprising a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites; A station satellite control means for controlling the station satellite, The station satellite control means determines, from among the plurality of debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a predetermined debris moving in space, and controls the station satellite based on the determination. Ground control equipment.

14. A station satellite that accommodates a plurality of debris removal satellites and supplies energy to the debris removal satellites is connected by a connection means for communicating with the debris removal satellites. A debris removal satellite control means for controlling the debris removal satellite, The debris removal satellite control means performs return control on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite. Ground control equipment.

15. It houses multiple debris removal satellites, Provides energy to the debris removal satellite Debris removal methods.

16. It moves through space using a propulsion mechanism, and controlling at least the propulsion mechanism to return to the station satellite. Debris removal methods.

17. A station satellite is connected in communication with the station satellite, the station satellite having a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites; Among the plurality of debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a predetermined debris moving in space is determined, and the station satellite is controlled based on the determination. Control methods.

18. A station satellite that houses a plurality of debris removal satellites and supplies energy to the debris removal satellites is connected to the debris removal satellites in communication with the station satellite; A feedback control is performed on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite. Control methods.

19. The station satellite's computer, a means for housing a plurality of debris removal satellites; means for providing energy to said debris removal satellite; A program that functions as a

20. The debris removal satellite's computer, means for applying a thrust to said debris removal satellite for movement in space using a thrust mechanism; means for controlling at least said propulsion mechanism for returning to the station satellite; A program that functions as a

21. The ground control computer, A means for communicating with a station satellite, the station satellite comprising: a storage mechanism for storing a plurality of debris removal satellites; and a supply mechanism for supplying energy to the debris removal satellites. a means for determining, from among the plurality of debris removal satellites, a debris removal satellite that performs removal processing on a predetermined debris moving in space, and controlling the station satellite based on the determination; A program that functions as a

22. The ground control computer, A means for communicating with a plurality of debris removal satellites from a station satellite that accommodates the plurality of debris removal satellites and supplies energy to the debris removal satellites; a means for performing a feedback control on the debris removal satellite returning to the station satellite; A program that functions as a

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