ZERO GRAVITY MINING / SATELITE DECOMISSIONING
Projects
The Cosmic Marketplace
The Orbital Locker isn’t just an industrial platform; it’s a cosmic marketplace where the future is on display: Constructed from ORBlocks, the Orbital Locker will act as a one stop shop for industrial operations in space.
The Locker facility will contain cavities for standardised modules, each module can be plugged into the main facility and begin operating. The Locker will provide power and maintain orbit, it can also transfer gas and liquids if necessary, between modules. Each module can contain a different type of operation, from reprocessing space debris, repairing defunct satellites, storing other debris to manufacturing, data storage and many more, allowing for a thriving ecosystem of business and sparking innovation.
Space Innovation
Here, innovation knows no bounds. Scientists and visionaries redefine the limits of possibility, by adapting the ORBlock system constantly, we can improve its versatility and flexibility giving it an ever wider array of uses, eventually constructing geostationary ports, and highways for interplanetary and even interstellar travel.
ORBlocks provide the canvas; innovation paints the future.
Access to Space
It’s a gateway for space exploration and commercial activities, offering essential services for space agencies and entrepreneurs venturing into the cosmos.
The universe is open for business.
Space-Born Products
Explore a treasure trove of space-born innovations and products, from cutting-edge technology to sustainable resources. All produced inside the industrial hub of the orbital locker, housing different on orbit service providers, facilitating cooperation and supply chains to develop.
Welcome to the next generation marketplace.
The Cosmic
Canvas Awaits
Join us in shaping the future of space industry and commerce. With ORBlocks, The Orbital Locker, and the cosmic marketplace, the possibilities are limitless.
future projects
Space Jellyfish
The Orbital Debris Collection Drone, termed the “Space Jellyfish,” is a specialized spacecraft designed for intercepting, ensnaring, and safely redirecting space debris. Combining passive ensnarement mechanisms with advanced propulsion and guidance systems, it represents a novel approach to tackling the growing problem of orbital debris.
Propulsion System
Ion thrusters, due to their high efficiency and prolonged operation in space, serve as the primary propulsion. The drone will require fine-tuned control for precise interceptions, especially when approaching debris at high relative velocities.
Tendril Mechanism
Composed of lightweight, durable materials such as carbon-fibre or Kevlar, ensuring both strength and flexibility. Multiple tendrils, spanning several meters, provide a wide catchment area. Each tendril is equipped with flat, curved magnetic hooks to aid in the ensnarement of ferrous space debris. Aerogel, known for its lightweight and sticky properties, coats these hooks to increase the probability of catching non-ferrous debris.
Guidance & Control System
Advanced onboard sensors and guidance algorithms ensure that the drone can match the debris’ orbital trajectory, slowing down appropriately to allow debris to pass through its tendrils and then accelerate to alter the debris’ course.
Debris Momentum Management
Once debris is ensnared, the tendrils are partially reeled in, minimizing sway, and allowing the drone to effectively control the debris’ momentum.
Refuelling and Maintenance
After depositing the debris at the Orbital Locker, the drone undergoes routine maintenance. Worn-out tendrils are replaced, and the drone is refuelled or recharged, preparing it for the next mission.
Feasibility & Considerations
Relative Velocity
The biggest challenge is the high relative velocities between debris and the drone. Intercepting a piece of debris traveling at several kilometres per second, even with a large net, is extremely challenging. This requires precise calculations and timely propulsion adjustments.
Tendril Durability
Given the hostile environment of space and potential impact velocities, the tendrils must be exceptionally robust. The selected materials are strong and resilient, but prolonged usage may result in wear and tear.
Debris Size Range
The drone might be effective for medium-sized debris. Extremely small debris could be hard to ensnare, while large debris might be challenging to control and redirect.
Suggestions
Multiple Drone Sizes
Consider designing various sizes of the drone, each optimized for a particular size range of debris.
Tendril Redundancy
Always have backup tendrils in case primary ones get damaged during operations.
Automated Guidance System
Use machine learning algorithms to refine interception trajectories over time, making operations more efficient.
Conclusion
The “Space Jellyfish” ODCD presents an innovative solution to space debris mitigation. While the concept is theoretically feasible, practical implementation would involve addressing several engineering challenges. With appropriate R&D investments and iterative design enhancements, it can become a pivotal tool in ensuring safer space operations.
Overall, while the idea is ambitious, addressing the highlighted challenges and considerations could make it a reality. Future advancements in materials science, propulsion technology, and guidance systems would only enhance its viability.
Space Mosquito
The Orbital Resource Extraction Drone, colloquially termed the “Space Mosquito,” is an advanced asteroid exploration and mining drone. Designed to approach, analyse, land on, and extract resources from asteroids, it utilizes a blend of state-of-the-art propulsion, sensory, and excavation systems.
Propulsion System
Ion thrusters, due to their high efficiency and prolonged operation in space, serve as the primary propulsion. The drone will require fine-tuned control for precise interceptions, especially when approaching debris at high relative velocities.
Mechanical Legs with Integrated Thrusters
Six mechanically articulated legs allow the drone to ‘land’ on asteroids. Mini thrusters (cold gas thrusters) integrated into the legs facilitate precision positioning and anchoring. These legs can adapt to uneven surfaces and ensure stability during drilling operations.
Sensory and Scanning System
Equipped with multispectral imagers and spectrometers to determine the asteroid’s composition. This allows for pinpointing valuable resources and optimal drilling locations.
Drilling System (Nose)
A combination of conventional drilling (for initial penetration) and a thermal drill, which heats up to melt and break through tougher materials.
* The hammer mechanism assists in breaking more rigid structures.
* The drill’s cyclic operation (drill-hammer-heat) optimizes the extraction process.
Resource Collection Compartment
After drilling, the extracted materials (in powder, liquid, or gas form) are stored in a hermetically sealed compartment. Advanced filtration systems ensure only valuable materials are retained.
Physical Feasibility
A key concern is the lack of gravitational force on smaller asteroids, making conventional drilling techniques ineffective, as the force applied would push the drone away. The mechanical legs, with their grasping mechanism and mini thrusters, counteract this issue. When the legs grasp the asteroid, the opposing force from the drilling will be balanced out by the legs’ grip and thruster system, ensuring the drone remains in place.
Conclusion
The “Space Mosquito” ORE-D represents a feasible approach to asteroid mining given current technological advancements. The integration of advanced propulsion, mechanical landing systems, and versatile drilling methods account for the challenges of microgravity environments and the varied composition of asteroids.
constructing the future of space infrastructure
The Orbital Locker is not just an industrial platform; it’s a cosmic epicentre where pioneers and visionaries converge to craft the future. It’s where humanity’s dreams become reality, where innovation thrives, and where the possibilities are as limitless as the universe itself.
