Is Spacecraft Construction in Low Earth Orbit Feasible?

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SUMMARY

The feasibility of spacecraft construction in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) remains largely untested, with the International Space Station (ISS) being the primary example of assembly in orbit. Current practices involve fabricating spacecraft and ISS modules on Earth before launch. Notable studies, such as "Building Large Space Bases in Low Earth Orbit," provide insights into potential methodologies and challenges. Resources from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) may offer additional information on this topic.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) dynamics
  • Familiarity with spacecraft assembly techniques
  • Knowledge of the International Space Station (ISS) operations
  • Awareness of aerospace engineering principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Building Large Space Bases in Low Earth Orbit" for detailed methodologies
  • Explore AIAA resources for studies on spacecraft construction
  • Investigate current ISS assembly practices and technologies
  • Examine advancements in in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) for LEO construction
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, researchers in space exploration, and professionals interested in the future of spacecraft manufacturing in Low Earth Orbit.

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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