A Non-Synchronous Orbital Skyhook
Abstract
Characteristics of a low circular equatorial orbit satellite equipped with two long cables which touch the planet's atmosphere, or even the surface, each rotation are described. The two long cables extend in opposite directions, and the system acts like the two spokes of a giant wheel rolling on the equator. The orbit is stable, and skyhook taper is minimized when the satellite's diameter is one-third that of the planet. Taper and mass ratios for three lengths of derated graphite skyhooks for solar system bodies are provided for synchronous, 1/3 ratio, and optimum orbits. Characteristics of tapered derated carbon (graphite) whiskers are discussed, and formulas which indicate taper requirements are derived. Parameters of a minimum-taper satellite rotating earth are reported, and the stability is considered.
BibTeX
@article{Moravec-1977-15084,author = {Hans Moravec},
title = {A Non-Synchronous Orbital Skyhook},
journal = {Journal of the Astronautical Sciences},
year = {1977},
month = {December},
volume = {25},
number = {4},
pages = {307 - 322},
}