Sure, here is the content you requested:
1. PDF AAS 22-xxx ATTITUDE DYNAMICS OF ON-ORBIT REFUELING CONFIGURATIONS
In the second section, the vector-dyadic equation is implemented in matrix form and applied to the tail-tail and spine-spine on-orbit refueling concepts proposed by SpaceX (Ref.[10]) as part of the Human Landing System (HLS) mission architecture. This marks the first time propellant transfer between spacecraft of this size will …
URL: NASA NTRS
2. Starship In-Space Refueling Technology Is Getting Real For SpaceX
In-space refueling is the key. Propellant transfer technology is integral to SpaceX’s ambitions beyond Earth orbit,especially for the Human Landing System (HLS) version of Starship,which aims to land astronauts on the moon as part of the Artemis III mission,tentatively scheduled for September 2026. The mission has already been delayed from it’s original schedule and, while it …
URL: Space Voyaging
3. Phasing out the SLS and Orion programs and Starship
The Space Launch System (SLS) and the Orion spacecraft comprise the first transportation system, while the second transportation system consists of SpaceX’s Starship.
While the U.S. military has shown some interest in in-space refueling in general, there are industry concerns that it might not be a priority. That includes reports that the Space Force had considered zeroing out a budget line item for space mobility in its upcoming fiscal year 2026 budget request.
Another Starship application that DIU is exploring is what he called “novel responsive space delivery,” which he defined as delivering unique payloads using rockets. The Air Force Research Lab is already studying “rocket cargo” concepts, like Starship, through a vanguard program for point-to-point transportation.
the DIU approach involves using Starship for delivering cargo from orbit to the ground. “You’ve got payloads on orbit and you want to do something useful with them, and then you want to reenter them and bring them back and exploit them in some way,” he said.
“We want to leverage what’s implicit with your architecture, what’s implicit with your system, and do it in a way that’s non-interference but additive to the conversation,” he said of DIU’s general approach to using commercial capabilities like Starship.
Related
exploring the Future of On-Orbit Refueling and Starship’s Role in SpaceX’s Lunar Missions
Table of Contents
With recent advancements and research in on-orbit refueling, particularly with NASA and SpaceX, scientists and engineers are now focusing on making in-space refueling a reality. This technology is crucial for SpaceX’s ambititous plans to land astronauts on the moon as part of the Artemis III mission.In this exclusive interview, the Senior editor of world-today-news.com sits down with renowned space expert Dr. Emma Richardson to discuss the groundbreaking research in on-orbit refueling configurations and the vital role that Starship plays in this mission.
Vector-dyadic Equations and Refueling Configurations
Could you start by sharing some insights from yoru recent paper titled “ATTITUDE DYNAMICS OF ON-ORBIT REFUELING CONFIGURATIONS”? What are the key findings concerning the vector-dyadic equation implementation in matrix form?
Dr. Emma Richardson:
“The paper highlights the request of the vector-dyadic equation in matrix form for on-orbit refueling configurations, specifically focusing on the tail-tail and spine-spine concepts proposed by SpaceX for the Human landing System (HLS) architecture. This methodology allows for a systematic approach to understanding the dynamics involved in such transfers. The findings underscore the efficiency and stability of these configurations during propellant transfer between spacecraft, which is critical for the success of future missions.”
Advancements in In-Space Refueling Technology
How has the technology for in-space refueling evolved, especially in the context of the Artemis III mission?
Dr. Emma Richardson:
“In-space refueling technology has seen significant advancements, largely driven by SpaceX’s starship project. This technology is integral to the Artemis III mission, which aims to land astronauts on the moon. The initial challenges included the complexity of transferring propellant between spacecraft in orbit. Though, recent breakthroughs in propellant transfer technology have brought us closer to making this a feasible and reliable process. The tentatively scheduled mission for September 2026, although delayed from its original timeline, is a testament to the progress being made.”
The Role of Starship in Space
what are some of the unique payload delivery concepts you are exploring with Starship, and how does this differ from conventional space transportation systems?
Dr.Emma Richardson:
“Starship offers a unique possibility for novel responsive space delivery, allowing for the use of rockets to deliver and reenter payloads from orbit to the ground. This is a departure from traditional systems like the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion spacecraft. The Defence Innovation Unit (DIU) is exploring the use of Starship for point-to-point transportation, which could fundamentally change how we approach space logistics. Leveraging the capabilities of commercial systems like Starship can optimize space operations and make them more efficient.”
Future Directions and Collaboration
What are some industry concerns regarding the priority of in-space refueling, and how can collaboration between NASA, SpaceX, and the military address these concerns?
Dr. Emma Richardson:
“There are industry concerns that in-space refueling might not be a priority, especially given the budget constraints of organizations like the Space force. collaborative efforts between NASA, SpaceX, and the military can address these concerns by demonstrating the benefits of in-space refueling technologies for various missions. This includes joint research initiatives and the shared use of resources to create a more robust and reliable space infrastructure.”
Dr. Emma richardson is a leading expert in space dynamics and technology with years of experience in the field.She has authored several groundbreaking papers and is currently advising on critical space missions.
