Definition Study and Model for a Tethered Sounding Rocket
Abstract
The HOCAT experiment is a sounding rocket payload to measure the coupling of large currents (up to 1 A) from a satellite into the ambient plasma, and the return path through the plasma. The devices to be used to establish electrical contact with the plasma are hollow cathode plasma sources, using Xenon propellent. Two satellite sections will be connected by a 100-m cable, which can be used to bias the two satellites with respect to each other. The current through the connecting cable will be monitored along with the particle fluxes to the satellites. A fiber-optic technique will be used to measure the return current flowing through the ambient plasma. Electric fields, densities, and plasma waves will be monitored with floating probes. We intend to launch this payload from Wallops Flight Facility two years after funding begins. Keywords: Space elevator; Orbital tower; Electrodynamics; Tether deployment system; Plasma contactor hollow cathode, Flight program; Model of system electrodynamic behavior study.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA207367
Entities
People
- Sang I. Yoon
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School