Patent ID: 8292232
Filing Date: 2012-10-23
Classification: B64G

Abstract:
1. A satellite recovery system for returning a satellite to earth, the system comprising: a base portion configured to attach to the satellite, the base portion including a pressurized gas system; a heat shield attached to the base portion; a plurality of walls hingedly attached to the base portion, the plurality of walls being movable between a non-deployed position wherein the plurality of walls and the base portion define a cavity; and a deployed position wherein the plurality of walls are pivoted at least ninety degrees from the non-deployed position; and a deployable decelerator assembly movable from a non-deployed position wherein the decelerator assembly is disposed in the cavity defined by the plurality of walls and the base portion, and a deployed position, the decelerator assembly having an inner perimeter attached to the heat shield and an outer perimeter comprising an expandable torus that is operably connected to the pressurized gas system.