Prospects for the use of the combined method for deorbiting of large-scale space debris from near-Earth space

1Dron, NM, 2Golubek, AV, 3Dreus, АYu., 3Dubovik, LG
1Oles Honchar National University of Dnipropetrovsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine
2Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, Dnipro, Ukraine
3Oles Honchar National University of Dnipro, Dnipro, Ukraine
Space Sci. & Technol. 2019, 25 ;(6):61-69
https://doi.org/10.15407/knit2019.06.061
Publication Language: Russian
Abstract: 
The article discusses the problem of orbital debris from the point of view of a great threat to near-Earth human space activities. An overview of the existing approaches and technologies of orbital debris removal from low-Earth orbits is given. Currently, the main ways to combat man-made space pollution are the active and passive methods of deorbiting debris from near-Earth orbits. Active methods allow providing the deorbiting processes during the guaranteed time, but ones are energy-consuming. Passive methods are more economical but time-consuming and may not comply with the requirements of the international convention of the space pollution mitigation. We consider a new combined method for the largescale orbital debris removal from low-Earth orbits. According to one, the space debris elements will be disposed of in dense layers of the atmosphere for further burning. This method involves the joint use of active means — a jet propulsion system and passive means — an aerodynamic sail. The concept of using the combined method is presented with the assessment of its efficiency. The effective zone of the method’s application is determined. This area includes the altitudes from 700 to 2500 km, depending on the ballistic coefficient.
      It is proposed to take as a criterion of efficiency the relative deviation of fuel components’ mass necessary to provide deorbiting. The efficiency and prospects of the new combine method are demonstrated. Outcomes of the work can form the basis for the feasibility study and the development of proposals for the application of the combined method for cleaning low-Earth orbits from the elements of large-scale space  debris.
Keywords: combined method, deorbiting, mitigation of near-Earth pollution, orbital debris
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