Patent ID: 7195206

Claim:
A system for deployment in space comprising: a free-flying platform equipped and adapted to carry out one or more utility functions in space; a servicing and inspection apparatus including a container that defines therein a chamber dimensioned and configured to receive said platform and that has an opening through which said platform may pass into and out of said chamber, a door movably connected to said container so as to be movable between a closed position in which said door closes said opening and an open position in which said door opens said opening, a closing mechanism connected to said door and adapted to selectively move said door to said closed position so as to retain and secure said platform in said chamber in said container, and at least one light beam device that is arranged in said container and that is connected for signal transmission so as to trigger an operation of said closing mechanism when said free-flying platform passes into a path of a light beam emitted by said at least one light beam device, wherein said closing mechanism includes a motor arranged to drive said closing mechanism so as to selectively move said door between said open position and said closed position.