初期接触のみにより拘束可能な深宇宙探査機のドッキング機構の検討と評価

抄録

In recent years, deep space exploration has become more active. Such missions in the future will require more flexibility and less risk. A promising next-generation exploration is a sample return mission using a parent-and-child type spacecraft. A key technology of the mission is autonomous docking in deep space. The authors propose a novel docking mechanism that has a high capacity for position error. The mechanism has claws that can cage a grapple fixture after the initial contact by spring force and then fixes by driving a motor. This paper presents the concept, requirements, and design of the docking mechanism. Then, evaluation with a prototype model is discussed.