Greg Wilburn
Papers
1
Total Citations
3
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Greg Wilburn is a pioneering aerospace engineer whose work focuses on sustainable space operations and orbital debris mitigation. His research centers on developing innovative, low-cost technologies for end-of-life satellite disposal, with a particular emphasis on advanced inflatable de-orbit systems. Wilburn’s most notable contribution is his 2019 study on "Advanced Inflatable De-Orbit Solutions for Derelict Satellites and Orbital Debris," which addresses the critical challenge of the exponential rise in small satellites and CubeSats in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). He demonstrated that while aerodynamic drag naturally de-orbits satellites at altitudes below 600 km, spacecraft placed at higher altitudes require active removal solutions. His work proposes scalable, lightweight inflatable drag sails that can be deployed to accelerate de-orbiting, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional propulsion systems. Though still early in his career, with 3 citations on this foundational paper, Wilburn’s research is gaining traction as the space community urgently seeks sustainable traffic management solutions. His work is particularly relevant for the growing small satellite industry, and he is recognized as an emerging voice in orbital debris policy and space sustainability.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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