Abstract: An in-space spacecraft servicing system (10) includes a servicing spacecraft (22) and a propellant module (24). The servicing spacecraft includes a client servicing system (136), as well as navigation avionics (108) for independent flight operation and a servicing propellant tank (170). The propellant module moves the servicing module from an upper stage drop off location and releases it in proximity to a client spacecraft (16) for a servicing mission. It has a propellant tank (172) with capacity for multiple missions and is used to refill the servicing spacecraft's propellant tanks between missions. Either or both the servicing spacecraft and the propellant module may have navigation avionics. The servicing spacecraft also has a universal docking adaptor (70) for different client spacecraft, and can convert a client spacecraft from non-cooperative to cooperative.

Abstract: An in-space spacecraft servicing system (10) includes a servicing spacecraft (22) and a propellant module (24). The servicing spacecraft includes a client servicing system (136), as well as navigation avionics (108) for independent flight operation and a servicing propellant tank (170). The propellant module moves the servicing module from an upper stage drop off location and releases it in proximity to a client spacecraft (16) for a servicing mission. It has a propellant tank (172) with capacity for multiple missions and is used to refill the servicing spacecraft's propellant tanks between missions. Either or both the servicing spacecraft and the propellant module may have navigation avionics. The servicing spacecraft also has a universal docking adaptor (70) for different client spacecraft, and can convert a client spacecraft from non-cooperative to cooperative.

Abstract: A propellant depot (40, 150) includes a utility box (42, 42?) that has space flight equipment. A propellant cartridge adaptor (95) is coupled to the utility box (42, 42?) and to an exchangeable propellant cartridge system (41). The propellant depot (40, 150) also includes a docking adaptor (44) for coupling to an approaching spacecraft (24). A controller (66) controls the transfer of propellant from within the exchangeable propellant cartridge system (41) to the spacecraft (24). A method of providing propellant to a spacecraft in space includes launching an orbital propellant depot (40, 150) into space. The spacecraft is docked to the orbital propellant depot (40, 150) in space. Propellant is transferred to the spacecraft. The spacecraft is separated from the orbital propellant depot (40, 150).

Abstract: A portable electronic device carrier (100) includes a base (105) having a resting portion (110) which slidably receives an electronic device (200) for securing the electronic device in a stored position. The base further includes a projection (120) extending from the base and positioned to engage the electronic device where the projection selectively alters the state of the electronic device when the electronic device is removed from the stored position along a first path (300) and fails to alter the state of the electronic device when the electronic device is removed along a second path (400).

Abstract: A thermal protection system is provided for a solid state valve that includes at least one representative thyristor having a junction and a heat sink system. The protection system comprises a thermal analog model whose electrical network dynamic electrical operating characteristics are electrically analogous to the thermal characteristics of the solid state valve for any given value of instantaneous load current supplied through the valve, which thermal characteristics include the heat transfer to cooling fluid capability characteristics of said representative thyristor including its heat sink system. A first electrical signal is derived which is representative of the value of the D.C. load current through said valve. A D.C.