초록 ▼

A cantilever, bi-level platform satellite dispenser for supporting a plurality of independently deployable satellites in a dual platform arrangement. The dispenser includes a lower platform assembly having a center post extending therefrom. An upper platform assembly is secured to an opposite end of

A cantilever, bi-level platform satellite dispenser for supporting a plurality of independently deployable satellites in a dual platform arrangement. The dispenser includes a lower platform assembly having a center post extending therefrom. An upper platform assembly is secured to an opposite end of the center post, thus spacing the upper platform assembly elevationally from the lower platform assembly. Each of the upper and lower platform assemblies include a platform member upon which a plurality of satellites may be disposed and supported solely along bottom portions thereof. On the lower platform assembly the satellites are supported exteriorly of the center post, which enables access to the satellites on this platform even after same are secured thereto. The dispenser is lighter in weight than previously developed dispensers and eliminates the need for any external support structure to be carried by the dispenser or attached to the fairing. This enables the full fairing of the launch vehicle to be jettisoned at the appropriate time during ascent of the launch vehicle, thus significantly increasing the payload weight that may be carried into low earth orbit.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A space vehicle dispenser apparatus for supporting a plurality of independently deployable spacecraft in a dual platform configuration to permit jettisoning of a full fairing of a space vehicle during ascent of the space vehicle, said apparatus comprising:a first platfo

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A space vehicle dispenser apparatus for supporting a plurality of independently deployable spacecraft in a dual platform configuration to permit jettisoning of a full fairing of a space vehicle during ascent of the space vehicle, said apparatus comprising:a first platform for supporting a first subplurality of said spacecraft thereon;a post extending generally orthogonally from said first platform;a second platform spaced elevationally apart from said first platform and supported by said post, said second platform operating to support a second subplurality of said spacecraft thereon; andwherein said first platform comprises a lower support cone assembly for supporting said center post.