Capture Simulation Using Space-Nets for Space Debris in Various Motions

In this study, capture simulation of space debris in various motions is conducted using a space-net. A nonlinear structural dynamics analysis code, ABAQUS, is used in the capture simulation. A general contact method is used to represent both the contact between the space-net and space debris, and the self-contact of the space-net. The space debris is assumed to be a rigid body with the shape of a 12U cube-sat. The space-net is shaped as a 2 × 2 m square and modeled using nonlinear finite beam elements. The present capture simulation techniques are validated through a comparison with a capture test from a previous study. In the capture simulations, first, the process of capturing space debris in cooperative motion is understood. Second, the space-net is simulated to capture space debris in non-cooperative motion. Results show that the rotation about the z -axis contributes significantly to the rotational component of the space debris in non-cooperative motion for a successful or unsuccessful capture.