![\"Astroscale](\"https:\/\/cdn.satnow.com\/news\/1765954177023_639015509785363987.png\")
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Astroscale<\/strong>, the market leader in satellite servicing and long-term orbital sustainability across all orbits, announces the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 12,479,603 B2, \u201cMethod and Device for Capture of Tumbling Space Objects.\u201d The innovation introduces a novel spacecraft design with an \u201cempty\u201d docking volume and center-of-mass control technique that will allow Astroscale servicers to approach and synchronise with client satellites more precisely, more safely and with far less fuel, even if they are tumbling. The method marks a major advance in Astroscale\u2019s on-orbit servicing capabilities and lays the foundation for a future in which satellites transform from limited, single-use systems into fully serviceable assets.<\/p>\n Current approaches to capturing tumbling satellites inherently carry greater risk. Uncontrolled rotation means physical contact \u2014 required for nearly any servicing activity \u2014 can trigger shocks or fragmentation that worsens the debris problem. Astroscale\u2019s patented method mitigates these hazards by allowing a servicer to match a client\u2019s tumble rate before capture without using fuel or propulsion. The technique involves deploying counter-masses to shift the servicer\u2019s center of mass into an empty clearance volume. Aligning the centers of gravity of the servicer and client allows both objects to orbit together without requiring contact, propulsion, or control of relative rotation rates. Once aligned, the servicer can use angular momentum to mirror the client\u2019s rotation and then establish mechanical attachment, such as with a robotic arm, at effectively zero relative rotation. When stabilized and secured, the client becomes accessible for a wide range of servicing activities, including refueling, repair, relocation and maintenance.<\/p>\n