Tether_Info

Electrodynamic Tethers

Tether Physics and Survivability Experiment (TiPS)
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Image Credit: US NAVY
Tips in Orbit Configuration

Tether Physics and Survivability Experiment (TiPS)
U.S. NAVAL RESEARCH LABORATORY
Updated: 06/01/2004 08:24:47

Technical Features

Jettisoned from host vehicle after primary mission completion
Fully deployed payload of two separate bodies connected by 4 km (2.5 mile) tether

Norton mounted closest to host vehicle has no electronics

Ralph contains electronics, tether deployer, and instrumentation

Objectives

Enhanced understanding of "libration," the pendulum-like motion of endmasses about system center of mass
Collect data on tether's susceptibility to damage by space debris
Successfully deployed by satellite in 1996, still operational 1999

SOURCE: http://code8100.nrl.navy.mil/programs/tips.htm

Image Credit: US NAVY
Tips Pre-deployment Configuration
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Image Credit: US NAVY
Tips Pre-deployment Configuration
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Image Credit: US NAVY
Tips Tether

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