Observations of Sub-LF Electromagnetic Field Phenomena Associated with Modulated Electron Beams on STS-3.

Abstract

This report provides initial documentation of some of the sub-LF (frequencies less than 30kHz) electromagnetic field phenomena observed during the first active electron beam/space plasma experiment on a Space Shuttle orbiter. The experiment took place in March 1982 as part of the third flight of an orbiter, and it was notable for its particularly complete instrumentation for plasma and electromagnetic wave diagnostic measurements. A number of anomalous electric and magnetic field phenomena are observed during the electron beam modulation experiments, including the generation of noise bands, extra harmonics, and a variety of side frequencies. In addition, discrete ELF tones are observed during some of the dc electron beam pulse sequences, and there are peculiarities in the harmonic structure of the electromagnetic fields produced during lower-ELF modulation of the electron beam. Studies of these effects are continuing. Keywords: Electron beam; Space shuttle; Space plasma; Beam plasma interactions; Ultralow frequency; Extremely low frequency; and Very low frequency.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 01, 1985
Accession Number
ADA162543

Entities

People

  • Antony C. Fraser-smith
  • Geoffery D. Reeves
  • Peter M. Banks

Organizations

  • Stanford University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Sensors
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Analyzers
  • Electromagnetic Fields
  • Electron Beams
  • Electrons
  • Frequency
  • Instrumentation
  • Magnetic Detectors
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Measurement
  • Modulation
  • Orbits
  • Plasma Diagnostics
  • Radiation
  • Space Sciences
  • Space Shuttles
  • Spacecraft

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Acoustics.
  • Missile Defense Systems.
  • Plasma Physics / Magnetohydrodynamics

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Microelectronics
  • Space