Systems and methods for releasing a spacecraft payload at a substantially
constant velocity are disclosed. A linear actuator is used that includes
a spring loaded and fluid filled chamber. The spring drives against a
piston within the chamber that includes a control orifice that restricts
the fluid flowing from one side of the piston to the other and results in
a substantially constant damped motion of the piston. The piston drives a
rod from the chamber that is attached to a capture device that holds a
flange of the spacecraft payload. The capture device moves along a linear
guide toward an open end. Spring loaded latches are held in a closed
position by the side walls of the guide as the capture device moves. The
latches release the flange as exit the open end of the guide.