Patent ID: 11987394

Abstract:
Technology is disclosed herein for deploying stacked spacecraft. When the spacecraft are stacked corresponding z-axis magnetic torque rods of the spacecraft will align with each other along a z-axis. Thus, collectively the stack of spacecraft have one or more sets of magnetic torque rods aligned with the z-axis. Just prior to deploying the spacecraft the one or more sets of magnetic torque rods are operated to hold the stack of spacecraft together. For example, the north magnetic pole of the magnetic torque rod in one spacecraft may face the south magnetic pole of the magnetic torque rod in an adjacent spacecraft. To deploy the top spacecraft, the polarity of the z-axis magnetic torque rod(s) in the top spacecraft is/are reversed. After the spacecraft is clear of the stack the magnetic torque rod(s) in the deployed spacecraft may be de-activated. Then another spacecraft may be deployed in a similar manner.