Is Spacecraft Construction in Low Earth Orbit Feasible?

AI Thread Summary
Spacecraft construction in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) remains largely untested, with most spacecraft and ISS modules fabricated on Earth before launch. Current experience is limited primarily to the assembly of the International Space Station (ISS) and some experimental manufacturing efforts. However, there are studies available, such as "Building Large Space Bases in Low Earth Orbit," which explore the potential for LEO construction. Additional resources can be found at the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) website. Overall, while theoretical discussions exist, practical implementation of spacecraft construction in LEO is still in its infancy.
micahgtb
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I am looking for any information on the feasibility of spacecraft construction in LEO. Does anybody know of any papers or lectures on the subject. Any Help in appreciated, thanks!
 
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micahgtb said:
I am looking for any information on the feasibility of spacecraft construction in LEO. Does anybody know of any papers or lectures on the subject. Any Help in appreciated, thanks!
Other than the assembly of ISS, and whatever manufacturing is done on an experimental basis, there really isn't much exprience constructing spacecraft in LEO. Spacecraft and ISS modules are fabricated on the surface and launched into space.

There are lots of studies however, for example -

Building Large Space Bases in Low Earth Orbit
http://cedb.asce.org/cgi/WWWdisplay.cgi?9603125

There are probably several sources at www.aiaa.org
 
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Due to the constant never ending supply of "cool stuff" happening in Aerospace these days I'm creating this thread to consolidate posts every time something new comes along. Please feel free to add random information if its relevant. So to start things off here is the SpaceX Dragon launch coming up shortly, I'll be following up afterwards to see how it all goes. :smile: https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacex/
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