Gecko based Innovative Capture Kit for uncooperative and unprepared Orbital assets

ongoing

The gEICko project aims to develop a capture kit for docking uncooperative spacecraft, such as satellites and rocket stages, through innovative use of Gecko-inspired micro-patterned dry adhesives (MDA). These adhesive pads mimic a gecko's foot, utilizing Van der Waals forces to securely attach to various surfaces, such as solar panels, on satellites even if they weren’t designed for docking. This two-phase docking system first allows for flexible attachment using MDA, supporting multiple dock and undock procedures. It then secures the target with a robust anchoring mechanism at an optimal spot, enabling ISOS operations such as controlled re-entry or recycling. In cases where direct docking is not possible due to tumbling targets, gEICko offers a tether-based capture mechanism. Using a whip-like motion, the tether allows for controlled deployment and contact to targets that exhibit a complex motion, significantly expanding the range of potential mission targets. Additionally, gEICko seeks to harness energy from solar panels on captured satellites. This feature involves studying methods to extract power directly from the solar arrays of a target, with options to adapt future panel designs for improved energy transfer. These innovations aim to support multiple space services, from debris removal to satellite servicing, offering a versatile and game-changing technology for space operations and a new option to attach various payload packs to different space assets.