SPACE MICRO-ROBOTS

Abstract

The article proposes a method of dealing with space debris. This method is based on the use of a large number of controlled space micro-robots, which are moving in a retrograde near-earth orbit (towards the particles of space debris). Strategy of struggle space debris consist in targeting micro-robots at large and medium-sized objects to change their orbit (in case of a threat of collision). The task of such an impact is prevention the chain reaction of propagation of space debris because of the collision of these objects. Destruction of small particles of space debris will occur due at the expense of random collisions with micro-robots. The control system makes it possible to divert the micro-robots away from the operating spacecraft’s. In addition, each micro-robot is equipped with a self-destruct system, which helps prevent collisions with the operating spacecraft in the event of a control system failure. It is shown that the new method allows cleaning the space corridor from small particles of space debris for the safe movement of spacecraft’s in a short time and at low cost. In parallel with the elimination of space debris, the some additional possibilities of orbital grouping of micro-robots is being consider. For example, the orbital grouping of micro-robots can be used for detection and to refine the orbital characteristics of particles of space debris (i.e. perform the functions of an astronomical instrument and navigation system). Micro-robots can perform functions of orbit correction, deceleration, or acceleration of operating spacecraft. Considered the possibility of creating a fundamentally new space engine (using micro-robots as a propellant). It is shown that the new engine has high efficiency and can be used to launch spacecraft to Mars. This engine allows recycling a large number of old micro-robots (which must be removed from Earth orbit).