This study considers the retrieval of a tethered astronaut from an extra-vehicular assignment. In general, an investigation of the properties of two tethered objects in an orbit and an analysis of the problems associated with effecting a union of the two are considered. It was found that successful retrieval can be made only over a narrow range of conditions when angular momentum is conserved. Angular momentum dissipation techniques, however, extend the operational envelope so that retrieval can be accomplished over a wide range of conditions. The philoso¬phies and techniques developed may be utilized in other orbital applications such as space vehicle rendezvous and docking, satellite inspection, trajectory alteration, remote handling, etc.
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