The Effects of Neutral Gas Release on Vehicle Charging: Experiment and Theory
Abstract
This paper describes an experimental and theoretical research effort related to the mitigation of spacecraft charging by Neutral Gas Release (NGR). Laboratory simulations which employ a charged aluminum cylinder containing a neutral gas release valve have verified the effectiveness of NGR as a means of mitigating high voltages under environmental conditions close to the natural space environment. The charging electronics were developed under the Space Experiment Aboard Rockets (SPEAR) program. The experiments were conducted in the large volume Space Physics Simulation Chamber (SPSC) at the Naval Research Laboratory. This Laboratory environment is similar to that encountered by LEO spacecraft, e.g., the Space Station, Shuttle, and high inclination satellites. The basis of the theoretical treatment is a simple Townsend discharge. In addition the nozzle release of neutral gas is modeled and a simple linear spatial dependence of the applied potential is assumed. This basic model produces quite good results when compared to the experiment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 30, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA355628
Entities
People
- C. L. Siefring
- D. N. Walker
- Michael J. Keskinen
- Richard F. Fernsler
- W. E. Amatucci
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory