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Old November 23rd 05, 07:37 AM posted to sci.space.tech
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Default Is an orbital refueling station feasible?

"IsaacKuo" writes:

The refueling station is a solar powered satellite which
scoops up water vapor from the atmosphere and then
electrolyzes it into rocket fuel.


If you have your satellite dip into the atmosphere on each
orbit, the orbit will slow down due to drag. You'll have to
burn some fuel to regain this loss. How much fuel? Less than
you can produce? How much less?

I think that's what you'd need to calculate.

I feel that the answer will be 'forget about it'.

But what do I know

best regards
Patrick