Spacecraft Charging at Geosynchronous Orbit


Book Description

Rapid variations in spacecraft potential are observed on entry and exit from the earth's shadow. Generalized equations, based on elementary plasma probe theory, are developed which make quantitative estimates of these potentials as a function of satellite position in the earth's penumbra, and are compared with data from the ATS-5 and ATS-6 geosynchronous satellites. The agreement between the observations and the predictions results from the approximate constancy of the ratio of the ambient ion to electron current during injection events. Due to the significant size and shape differences of the ATS-5 and ATS-6 satellites, the results are applicable in many space physics situations such as estimating the effects of electron beams on satellite potential and of spacecraft charging on very large space structures. (Author).




High-level Spacecraft Charging Environments Near Geosynchronous Orbit


Book Description

High-level spacecraft charging events in sunlight are discussed and statistically analyzed to determine environmental parameters critical to charging and the region of space near geosynchronous altitude where charging occurs. Significant levels of spacecraft charging are shown to occur only between 1900 LT and 0900 LT at any altitude or latitude of the SCATHA satellite orbit. High-level charging is shown to occur only during periods when the magnetic activity index is 2+ or greater. Distribution functions of energetic electrons and ions are presented for 3 high-level charging periods on days 114, 241 and 363, 1979. Moments of the distribution functions are determined, and fitting techniques used to derive two-Maxwellian densities and temperatures are discussed. Results are provided in a format usable in satellite design specifications.




Spacecraft Charging at Geosynchronous Orbit


Book Description

Rapid variations in spacecraft potential are observed on entry and exit from the earth's shadow. Generalized equations, based on elementary plasma probe theory, are developed which make quantitative estimates of these potentials as a function of satellite position in the earth's penumbra, and are compared with data from the ATS-5 and ATS-6 geosynchronous satellites. The agreement between the observations and the predictions results from the approximate constancy of the ratio of the ambient ion to electron current during injection events. Due to the significant size and shape differences of the ATS-5 and ATS-6 satellites, the results are applicable in many space physics situations such as estimating the effects of electron beams on satellite potential and of spacecraft charging on very large space structures. (Author)







Guide to Mitigating Spacecraft Charging Effects


Book Description

The definitive guide to the modern body of spacecraft charging knowledge—from first principles for the beginner to intermediate and advanced concepts The only book to blend the theoretical and practical aspects of spacecraft charging, Guide to Mitigating Spacecraft Charging Effects defines the environment that not only creates the aurora, but which also can have significant effects on spacecraft, such as disruption of science measurements and solar arrays from electrostatic discharge (ESD). It describes in detail the physics of the interaction phenomenon as well as how to construct spacecraft to enhance their survivability in the harsh environment of space. Combining the authors' extensive experience in spacecraft charging—and in their provision of design support to NASA, JPL, the commercial satellite market, and numerous other projects—this incredible book offers both a robust physics background and practical advice for neophytes in the field and experienced plasma physicists and spacecraft engineers. In addition to containing numerous equations, graphs, tables, references, and illustrations, Guide to Mitigating Spacecraft Charging Effects covers: Solar cell technology, especially higher voltage arrays, and the new design approaches that are appropriate for them Information about the space plasma environment New analytic computer codes to analyze spacecraft charging Spacecraft anomalies and failures which emphasized designs that are of greater importance than others




Proceedings of the Spacecraft Charging Technology Conference


Book Description

A Spacecraft Charging Technology Conference, sponsored by the USAF and NASA, was held in October 1976. The Proceedings contain over 50 papers dealing with subjects including: (1) the geosynchronous plasma environment, (2) spacecraft modeling, (3) spacecraft materials characterization, (4) spacecraft materials development, (5) satellite design and test. In addition, an executive summary and the transcript of a panel discussion are included. (Author).




Fundamentals of Spacecraft Charging


Book Description

As commercial and military spacecraft become more important to the world's economy and defense, and as new scientific and exploratory missions are launched into space, the need for a single comprehensive resource on spacecraft charging becomes increasingly critical. Fundamentals of Spacecraft Charging is the first and only textbook to bring together all the necessary concepts and equations for a complete understanding of the subject. Written by one of the field's leading authorities, this essential reference enables readers to fully grasp the newest ideas and underlying physical mechanisms related to the electrostatic charging of spacecraft in the space environment. Assuming that readers may have little or no background in this area, this complete textbook covers all aspects of the field. The coverage is detailed and thorough, and topics range from secondary and backscattered electrons, spacecraft charging in Maxwellian plasmas, effective mitigation techniques, and potential wells and barriers to operational anomalies, meteors, and neutral gas release. Significant equations are derived from first principles, and abundant examples, exercises, figures, illustrations, and tables are furnished to facilitate comprehension. Fundamentals of Spacecraft Charging is the definitive reference on the physics of spacecraft charging and is suitable for advanced undergraduates, graduate-level students, and professional space researchers.







High-level Spacecraft Charging Environments Near Geosynchronous Orbit


Book Description

High-level spacecraft charging events in sunlight are discussed and statistically analyzed to determine environmental parameters critical to charging and the region of space near geosynchronous altitude where charging occurs. Significant levels of spacecraft charging are shown to occur only between 1900 LT and 0900 LT at any altitude or latitude of the SCATHA satellite orbit. High-level charging is shown to occur only during periods when the magnetic activity index is 2+ or greater. Distribution functions of energetic electrons and ions are presented for 3 high-level charging periods on days 114, 241 and 363, 1979. Moments of the distribution functions are determined, and fitting techniques used to derive two-Maxwellian densities and temperatures are discussed. Results are provided in a format usable in satellite design specifications.