Enabling strategies for safe proximity operations to uncooperative and non-collaborative objects in Low Earth Orbit

Abstract. In-orbit servicing, transportation and removal activities are on the way to revolutionize space economy exploitation. Particularly for near-Earth environment these considered important in near- long-term future ensure sustainability of activities. In this paper one many challenges facing new expanding field is addressed, namely safe robust design proximity operations with non-collaborative uncooperative objects. Guidance control methods developed improve safety various phases, starting from far-range approach at tens kilometres closer distances few meters. Furthermore, a guidance method servicer platform cope uncontrolled tumbling motion target object proposed. Here contactless exploiting relative trajectories thruster plume impingement used reduce angular target.