Abstract A tube-in-tube concept for separation of bodies in space was investigated theoretically and experimentally. The separation system is based on generation of high pressure gas by combustion of solid propellant and restricting the expansion of the gas only by ejecting the two bodies in opposite directions, in such a fashion that maximizes generated impulse. An interior ballistics model was developed in order to investigate the potential benefits of the separation system for a large range of space body masses and for different design parameters such as geometry and propellant. The model takes into account solid propellant combustion, heat losses, and gas phase chemical reactions. The model shows that for large bodies (above 100kg) and typical separation velocities of 5m/s, the proposed separation mechanism may be characterized by a specific impulse of 25,000s, two order of magnitude larger than that of conventional solid rockets. It means that the proposed separation system requires only 1% of the propellant mass that would be needed for a conventional rocket for the same mission. Since many existing launch vehicles obtain such separation velocities by using conventional solid rocket motors (retro-rockets), the implementation of the new separation system design can reduce dramatically the mass of the separation system and increase safety. A dedicated experimental setup was built in order to demonstrate the concept and validate the model. The experimental results revealed specific impulse values of up to 27,000s and showed good correspondence with the model.
Highlights Presenting a tube-in-tube mechanism for separation of bodies in space. Can generate much higher specific impulse than a standard rocket motor configuration. Separation velocities similar to those of retro-rockets but with a fraction of the propellant. The separation mechanism is investigated both experimentally and theoretically. The experimental measurements show good correspondence with the model.
Modeling and testing of a tube-in-tube separation mechanism of bodies in space
Acta Astronautica ; 129 ; 214-222
2016-09-13
9 pages
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
Modeling and testing of a tube-in-tube separation mechanism of bodies in space
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