Stardust Final Conference: Advances in Asteroids and Space Debris Engineering and Science

Space debris and asteroid impacts pose a significant threat to Earth, and the Stardust program was formed in 2013 to develop and master techniques for their study and mitigation. This book is a collection of studies from the Final Stardust Conference, describing the latest in asteroid monitoring and how engineering efforts can help reduce space debris.

Format: Hardback
Length: 323 pages
Publication date: 11 February 2018
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Space debris and asteroid impacts pose a significant and imminent threat to our planet. To address these risks, the Stardust program was established in 2013. This comprehensive training and research network focused on developing and mastering techniques such as removal, deflection, exploitation, and tracking. This book serves as a compilation of various topics discussed at the Final Stardust Conference, shedding light on the latest advancements in asteroid monitoring and the potential contributions of engineering efforts in reducing space debris. It brings together experts from universities, research institutions, and industry, united by the mission of pushing the boundaries of space research with innovative ideas and visionary concepts.

The Symposium covered a wide range of topics, including:

Orbital and Attitude Dynamics Modeling: This involves developing mathematical models to simulate the behavior of objects in space, including asteroids and spacecraft. These models help predict the trajectory of objects and their interactions with each other, enabling scientists to analyze and mitigate risks.

Long Term Orbit and Attitude Evolution: This focuses on understanding the long-term evolution of asteroids and other objects in space, including their orbits and attitudes. By studying these dynamics, scientists can better predict the potential risks associated with asteroid impacts and develop strategies for mitigating them.

Particle Cloud Modeling and Simulation: This involves creating computer simulations to model the behavior of particles in space, such as dust and gas. These simulations help scientists understand the effects of space debris on spacecraft and the environment, and enable them to develop strategies for mitigating the impact of debris.

Collision and Impact Modelling and Simulation: This involves developing computer simulations to simulate the impact of asteroids and other objects on spacecraft and the Earth. By studying these simulations, scientists can better understand the effects of collisions and develop strategies for mitigating the damage and risk associated with such events.

Re-entry Modeling and Simulation: This involves developing computer simulations to model the re-entry of spacecraft into the Earth's atmosphere. By studying these simulations, scientists can better understand the effects of re-entry on spacecraft and develop strategies for ensuring safe and reliable re-entry.

Asteroid Origins and Characterization: This involves studying the origins and characteristics of asteroids, including their composition, structure, and history. By understanding these aspects, scientists can better predict the potential risks associated with asteroid impacts and develop strategies for mitigating them.

Orbit and Attitude Determination: This involves developing techniques to accurately determine the position and attitude of asteroids and other objects in space. By accurately determining the orbits of objects, scientists can better predict their interactions with spacecraft and the Earth and develop strategies for mitigating risks.

Impact Prediction and Risk Analysis: This involves developing techniques to predict the impact of asteroids and other objects on the Earth and developing strategies for mitigating the risk associated with such impacts. By analyzing the potential risks, scientists can develop emergency response plans and other measures to minimize the impact of asteroid impacts.

Mission Analysis-Proximity Operations: This involves developing techniques to analyze the potential risks associated with proximity operations, such as asteroid redirect missions or robotic missions to asteroids. By analyzing these operations, scientists can develop strategies for ensuring safe and successful operations.

Active Removal/Deflection Control Under Uncertainty: This involves developing techniques to control the behavior of asteroids and other objects in space using active means, such as propulsion or gravitational manipulation. By developing these techniques, scientists can mitigate the risk associated with uncontrolled objects in space.

Active Removal/Deflection Technologies: This involves developing and implementing technologies to actively remove or deflect asteroids and other objects in space. By developing these technologies, scientists can reduce the amount of space debris in orbit and mitigate the risk associated with asteroid impacts.

Asteroid Manipulation: This involves developing techniques to manipulate asteroids and other objects in space, such as redirecting their trajectories or changing their composition. By developing these techniques, scientists can explore the potential of asteroids as resources or as platforms for scientific research.

In conclusion, space debris and asteroid impacts pose a significant and imminent threat to our planet. The Stardust program and the Final Stardust Conference are important initiatives that aim to address these risks by developing and mastering techniques for removal, deflection, exploitation, and tracking. This book serves as a valuable resource for scientists, researchers, and policymakers, providing insights into the latest advancements in asteroid monitoring and the potential contributions of engineering efforts in reducing space debris. By continuing to invest in space research and development, we can mitigate the risks associated with these threats and ensure a safer and more sustainable future for our planet.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 165 x 243 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783319699554
Edition number: 1st ed. 2018