Book Description

The interaction of a satellite with the ionosphere is studied by solving numerically the Poisson-Vlasov system of equations. The self-consistent electric field is obtained by means of an iteration technique which cycles between the ion density and potential calculations. The current-voltage characteristics are computed as functions of satellite velocity, ion mass, electron temperature, and satellite shape and size. The size of the satellite studied varies over a range extending from 0.2 to 25 Debye lengths. The floating potential and the plasma drag of the satellite are obtained. In addition, the angular distribution of the ion current to a cylindrical satellite is obtained. The detailed structure of the wake is investigated. In particular, the wake length and ion focusing in the wake are studied. The satellity interaction with the ionosphere is examined without the effect of an ambient magnetic field. This interaction is then restudied by considering the inclusion of a uniform magnetic field. It is shown that a magnetic field oriented parallel to the flow velocity has a much greater influence on the subsequent motion of the ions in the wake than a field of equal magnitude oriented perpendicular to the flow velocity. (Author).