The possibility of using an autonomous electrodynamic tether to control the orbital motion of low-Earth-orbit spacecraft was examined. An autonomous electrodynamic cable differs from previously known electrodynamic cables in that it has an autonomous source of charges for ionizing the onboard supply of working fluid. The autonomous electrodynamic tether differs from previously known electrodynamic tethers by the presence of an independent charge source for ionizing the onboard working fluid. The article clarifies estimates of the thrust, energy consumption, and mass of such tethers, demonstrating the possibility of achieving a specific impulse of several hundred kilometers per second at a thrust price of 20 kW/N and an acceleration of approximately 1 mm/s2. A tether design using pressurization stabilization has been developed, and the composition and appearance of its main subsystems have been refined. The range of operating orbits for the autonomous electrodynamic tether has been determined, providing for a tilt limitation of at least 45 degrees to ensure satellite maneuverability while maintaining the ability to maintain a near-equatorial orbit. It was proposed to use such devices for performing long-term maneuvers at high characteristic speeds, for example, maintaining ultra-low orbits, ensuring multiple retargeting of spacecraft, separating them into orbital planes after launch, multiple inspections of space debris in various orbits, returning to the orbital station for maintenance, etc.

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