Analysis of Dynamical Plasma Interactions with High-Voltage Spacecraft. Volume 1
Abstract
This volume describes numerous plasma interaction problems done in support of DynaPAC code development, and in support of the SPEAR-II and SPEAR-3 programs. Two dimensional calculations show that oscillations of a beam emitted into an underdense plasma can cause overcharging of a beam emitting rocket, as was observed on MAIMIK. The effects of the sheath instability caused by orbital motion of a positive body are studied, showing that substantial potential oscillations occur, and that the electron current to the probe is enhanced. The plasma response to a sudden application of negative voltage to a probe is studied. It takes a long time to establish an equilibrium sheath, and early time ion currents can be enhanced by an order of magnitude. We calculate currents to the SPEAR-II high voltage probe, explaining the observed difference in probe reading between vacuum and plasma conditions. A one-dimensional model estimates the neutral density required for breakdown of a negative sheath, as proposed for SPEAR-3. We show calculations of the SPEAR-3 rocket floating potentials, collected currents, and current distribution to the particle detectors. Finally, DynaPAC calculations for the sheath structure around the TSS-1 subsatellite are presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA262783
Entities
People
- G. Jongeward
- I. Katz
- J. Lilley
- M. J. Mandell
- T. Luu