Space Tether Systems: Potential Applications in Orbital Mechanics and Space Exploration

Abstract

Space tether systems have emerged as a promising technology for advancing space exploration, satellite operations, and in-orbit energy transfer. These systems use long, lightweight cables to transfer energy and momentum between spacecraft, enabling fuel-efficient orbital maneuvers, deorbiting of space debris, and even propulsion without conventional propellants. Various types of tethers, including electrodynamic, momentum-exchange, and skyhook tethers, have been proposed for applications such as satellite deployment, orbital station-keeping, space transportation, and planetary exploration. Recent advancements in materials science, tether dynamics modeling, and autonomous control systems have significantly improved the feasibility of space tethers for real-world applications. However, challenges remain in areas such as tether survivability in the space environment, mitigation of tether-induced instabilities, and efficient power generation for electrodynamic tethers. This review examines the fundamental principles behind space tether systems, their operational mechanisms, key technological developments, and potential future directions, highlighting their transformative role in next-generation space infrastructure.