Electrodynamic Behavior of PMG-Delta

Abstract

The PMG-Delta experiment was launched on 26 June 1993 to test basic tether electrodynamic principles. The 500 m conducting tether deployed from the second stage of a Delta-rocket, and provided approx. 3 orbits of useful information. The tether was equipped at both ends with xenon hollow cathodes. With both cathodes operating, currents up to 0.3A could be driven in either direction. Plasma impedances outside the tether were as low as a few hundred ohms at peak current during daytime/perigee(200km). Large impedances (10-100 kohms) occurred at night/apogee(900km), or when cathode cycled off. Organizational learning, Lessons learned, After action reports, Information systems.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1994
Accession Number
ADA283930

Entities

People

  • Chung-jen Chang

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Altitude
  • Apogees
  • Electrons
  • Generators
  • Impedance
  • Information Systems
  • Lessons Learned
  • Low Earth Orbits
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Measurement
  • Orbits
  • Physics
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Schools
  • Space Propulsion
  • Spacecraft
  • Standards

Readers

  • Military History
  • Military Science
  • Plasma Physics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster
  • Space - Orbital Debris