Abstract: A satellite system is basically composed of a service module and a payload module interconnected to permit relative rotation of the latter in relation to the former so that the service module remains oriented with its solar generators facing the sun while the payload module may remain oriented towards the earth. Additional payload modules can be connected to the service module or to a payload module, and additional service modules can be connected to the first mentioned service module. The coupling is provided in each instance through a BAPTA interface.

Abstract: In a satellite or space station having at least one stabilized service module and a payload module connected thereto in different orientations, an interconnecting and coupling structure includes latchable lift-and-turn mechanisms having some components in the service module and remaining components in the payload module; relative lift is provided such that the components are interconnected to obtain the interconnection of the modules; the modules are independently and releasably interconnected for latching and locking them together while the lift-and-turn mechanism is disconnected.

Abstract: The attitude control is provided under utilization of the solar wind in that the effective surface area of solar panels facing the sun is controlled in accordance with certain rules of asymmetry and under utilization of pulling cable so that an imbalance in received solar pressure is utilized to change the attitude of the satellite.