Research on dynamics and developing method for short tethered satellite

The tethered satellite for short distance space operation is under consideration. The dynamic characters of the short tethered satellite in the developing phase were analyzed, and the developing strategy was searched for. The dynamic model of the tethered satellite was established, including the cable and the attitude of the sub-satellite. The developing method suitable for short distance operation was discussed. The tethered satellite could be released with an initial velocity, and decelerated during the developing phase to ensure the tension of the tethered. This method was tested by numerical simulation. The tethered sub-satellite can be released to any direction of the main-satellite, and the developing velocity is fast. It can meet the need of short distance developing operation. In the developing phase with deceleration, the angle of the tether in the orbital plane will change at the ratio of the orbital angle ratio, the attitude of the sub-satellite vibrates in a small range, and the tethered is tight. These dynamic characters could provide ideas about control and develop strategy for short tethered satellite.