Document Type

Report

Publication Date

Spring 2026

Abstract

As interest in deep space exploration and satellite communications increases around the world, the need for large orbital structures such as space stations, solar fields, and telescopes increases in parallel. Current methods include monolithic modular assembly, expanding deployable structures or requiring Extra-Vehicular Activities, all of which are costly and highly specialized. This paper proposes a form of robotic on-orbit assembly for structures beyond the size constraints of the launch vehicle. The SkyForge system consists of a launch capsule containing construction materials and a pair of tripedal robots, identical in form and task. These robots would autonomously locomote on, and assemble a truss structure, given project specifications. This method would allow for complex structures of great size, and variable dimensions to be constructed with minimal need for human intervention.

Notes

Course: ENP 495, Engineering Senior Capstone III (Dr. Peter Staritz)

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