Applications of space tribology in the USA

Abstract

Applications of space tribology in the USA, India, China and Japan are discussed. In the USA three segments of the space programme are covered: the civilian program of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA); the military space program; and the commercial space and communications program. In Japan two major areas are mentioned: tribology for launch vehicles and satellites. China's space activities over the past 25 years are reviewed from its first man-made earth satellite to its sun-synchronous meteorological satellite. The space tribology activity in India at the Indian Space Research Organization at Trivandrum and Bangalore is covered. This has concentrated on instrument ball bearings and gyroscopes. Space tribology applications in the USSR will be covered in a later issue of Tribology International.