Navigating the Road to Autonomous Orbital Rendezvous

Abstract

The fundamental techniques and approaches to orbital rendezvous have predominantly been defined by the United States and Russian space programs. Although both programs were initially pursuing the same goal, they chose two very distinct paths. Themanualmethod pursued by theUnited States has given it the capability to handle a variety of complex rendezvous and docking missions, whereas the Russians’ automated approach has come to symbolize efficiency and reliability. What is the reason that these two storied programs chose such different paths? How have these pioneering decisions affected the course of orbital rendezvous?Where is orbital rendezvous heading in the future? This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the programs,missions, and techniques that have set the standards for orbital rendezvous. In particular, it reveals the rationale and events behind the early engineering decisions regarding orbital rendezvous navigation systems, how they have come to influence ensuing programs, and why these traditional methods are beginning to be replaced by new autonomous approaches for current and future missions.