Analysis of Spacecraft Charging, Particle Beams and Geophysical Data Bases.

Abstract

This report documents investigations and computer programs developed for study of spacecraft charging, ionization effects of beams, and analyses of geophysical data bases. Spacecraft charging studies have been performed utilizing NASCAP and the associated program MATCHG. Specific SCATHA satellite charging events were simulated in detail. Special studies of HELIOS 1, GEOS, and a simple Space Based Radar are also described. Investigations for plasma definition and for determining threshold conditions for materials charging are summarized. Ionization and charging characteristics due to electron and beam currents are simulated for simple spherical or cylindrical symmetries, and includes flight simulation predictions. Particle trajectory studies were conducted for some basic electric field configurations, as well as for tracking particle beams in the geomagnetic field. Atmospheric density and winds have been determined for a series of rocket sphere flights in the lower thermosphere. An interactive graphics program (SUATEK) has been advanced.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 31, 1983
Accession Number
ADA138632

Entities

People

  • K. H. Bhavnani
  • M. F. Tautz
  • W. J. Mcneil

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Sensors
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Altitude
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Computer Programs
  • Detectors
  • Electron Density
  • Electrons
  • Geometry
  • Grids
  • Interactive Graphics
  • Materials
  • Measurement
  • Particle Beams
  • Secondary Emission
  • Space Based
  • Spacecraft
  • Spacecraft Charging
  • Three Dimensional

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Plasma Physics.
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Microelectronics
  • Space