COHERENT SCATTERING OF A METALLIC BODY IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IONIZED SHELL
Abstract
The problem of scattering of electromagnetic waves by a satellite which acquires an ionized coating while traversing the ionosphere is considered. An ion or electron shell may have considerable effect on the echo area of a satellite. This effect was examined for several models, the first of which is that originally proposed by Jastrow and Pearse. A spherical satellite becomes charged and acquires a concentric sheath of the opposite charge. The scattering cross section is obtained by considering the ionized sheath to have the macroscopic properties of a dielectric material. The resultant boundary condition problem is solved exactly. Alternative approximate solutions which are useful for determining the scattering cross sections of bodies of arbitrary shape were developed. Among the interesting results obtained is that the configuration is nearly invisible for some cases. Another model examined is that developed by Dolph and Weil. Significant echo areas are obtained by two mechanism. The first occurs when the radar frequency falls below the plasma frequency of the shell and the second, when the evacuated trail acts as a dielectric rod antenna. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0256359
Entities
People
- L. Jr. Peters
- W.g. Swarner
Organizations
- Ohio State University