Guided rocket system for the non-destructive capture of slow moving high altitude objects

Abstract

A system and method are provided for the non-destructive takedown of a high-altitude aerial object. The method provides a thrusting rocket enabled with a takedown payload, which may be launched from either a ground based or airborne platform. The takedown payload acquires the altitude, motion, and position parameters of a high altitude aerial object and the rocket acquires a position overlying the aerial object. The takedown payload releases a first plurality of ballast units, attached to a capture net, downward in a capture pattern surrounding the aerial object. In response to releasing the ballast units, the top surface of the aerial object is covered with the capture net. Combining the mass of each ballast unit with the mass of the aerial object forms a combined mass, and in response to the combined mass, the aerial object altitude is decreased.