Technical Note: Pirouette Launch and Energy Storage System
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M. Ostoja-Starzewski (2015), JBIS, 68, pp.406-407
Refcode: 2015.68.406
Abstract:
A novel astronautical launch system based on a spinning twin-mass-tether concept is proposed. Because of its analogy to the pirouette manoeuvre of figure skaters, it is called a Pirouette Launch System. It relies on a conversion of rotational motion, accumulated through a low-power and long-term energy source, into a high-power axial motion. The low power would come from sources such as two solar batteries, solar sails, or a conventional rocket propulsion. The self-balanced twin-tether system may also be modified into a Pirouette Energy Storage System in the outer space.
