AN INJECTION SYSTEM FOR ALLEVIATION OF RADIO BLACKOUT DURING RE-ENTRY
Abstract
This report outlines method of creating a window for radio communication through a re-entry plasma sheath. The results of non-equilibrium numerical calculations illustrate that the injection of a coolant gas will reduce the plasma sheath temperature but will not reduce the free electron density or plasma frequency. Plasma electron density can be reduced, however, by attachment to electrophilic gases. The chemical rates of attachment are computed; and criteria are developed which specify the amount of electrophilic gas required to reduce the electron density a specified amount in a given time. As a practical application, a gas injection system for the total alleviation of S-band blackout throughout the re-entry of a Trailblazer II vehicle would have a total charged weight of 3.4 lbs., a volume of 215 cubic inches, and would discharge 0.28 lbs. of SF(6) during re-entry. With a pulsed injection system, an even smaller system can be used.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0483277
Entities
People
- Joseph J. Rossi
- R. Earl Good