Analysis of the Robustness and Safety of Net-Based Debris Capture

Capture of debris via a net is one of the most promising Active Debris Removal methods. However, it is crucial to ensure that successful target capture is accomplished by the system even in the presence of uncertainties. The aim of this study is to understand the limitations of the tether-net system in capturing space debris and analyze its robustness and safety. The success of capture in non-nominal conditions is investigated, with errors considered in target position, angular velocity, and parameters concerning the ejection of net. In the performed sensitivity study, an improved version of a capture quality index is employed to evaluate the success or failure of capture in an automated way. The results of the sensitivity studies are promising, and suggest that target capture is robust to the inaccuracies that are expected to occur with the current technological limitations in tether-net systems.