How It’s Done:
On Monday, after the integrated spacecraft is stabilised in an orbit ideal for separation— which is estimated to be 121km X
125km— Isro will load the sequence of commands for the separation, which will then be autonomously executed by the
onboard systems.
The cylindrical structure on top of the orbiter— the extension of the fuel tank— is where the lander with the rover inside it is sitting. Both these modules are held together by clamps with two bolts. A scientist from the Isro Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (Istrac) centre in Bengaluru, which is controlling Chandrayaan-2, said: “Two halves of a metal flat spring are used to hold orbiter and lander. The springs are pre-loaded using two bolts. These bolts will be sheared and once these two bolts are cut the lander gets released.”
Another scientist, while stating that this method is simple, reliable and has extensive flight history, said that the systems are released by operation of a pyrotechnic bolt cutter to cut the bolts that hold the clamp.
“This system has high strength and stiffness when clamped and releases quickly—typically in less than 50 milliseconds when command is given. Both of these operational characteristics are considered very important,” the scientist said.
Once the separation is successful, India will only be less than a week away from Moon landing, which is scheduled for 1.55am on September 7. And, a successful landing will make it only the fourth country after the US, Russia and China to have achieved such a feat.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/ind ... 929834.cms
Is shearing the only way to do this?
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)). My bad.