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Apparatus and methods for performing satellite proximity operations such as inspection, recovery and life extension of a target satellite through operation of a "Satellite Inspection Recovery and Extension" ("SIRE") spacecraft which can be operated in the following modes (teleoperated, automatic, an

Apparatus and methods for performing satellite proximity operations such as inspection, recovery and life extension of a target satellite through operation of a "Satellite Inspection Recovery and Extension" ("SIRE") spacecraft which can be operated in the following modes (teleoperated, automatic, and autonomous). The SIRE concept further consists of those methods and techniques used to perform certain (on-orbit) operations including, but not limited to, the inspection, servicing, recovery, and lifetime extension of satellites, spacecraft, space systems, space platforms, and other vehicles and objects in space, collectively defined as "target satellites". The three basic types of SIRE proximity missions are defined as "Lifetime Extension", "Recovery", and "Utility". A remote cockpit system is provided to permit human control of the SIRE spacecraft during proximity operations.

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[ I claim:] [1.]1. A method of performing in-space proximity operations, said method comprising:(a) moving an extension spacecraft to within proximity of an orbiting target satellite;(b) mechanically connecting said extension spacecraft to said target satellite to form a docked satellite-spacecraft

[ I claim:] [1.]1. A method of performing in-space proximity operations, said method comprising:(a) moving an extension spacecraft to within proximity of an orbiting target satellite;(b) mechanically connecting said extension spacecraft to said target satellite to form a docked satellite-spacecraft combination, said extension spacecraft including,(i) guidance, navigation and control systems for position control of said extension spacecraft and said docked satellite-spacecraft combination, and(ii) an onboard propellant supply for extending the life of said target satellite; and(c) continuously activating said guidance, navigation and control systems of said extension spacecraft to extend the life of said target satellite.