An Overview of Charging of Large Space Structures in Polar Orbit,

Abstract

This paper gives an overview of some of the important questions regarding charging effects on large space structures in the polar ionosphere. The ionosphere as a rule is a rather benign environment as far as charging of spacecraft is concerned. The ionospheric plasma ia relatively cool and dense in comparison with other plasmas in space. The plasma density ranges from values on the order of 1000000/cu cm down to values as low as or even below 100/cu cm, with temperatures well below 1 eV (11600 K). However, there can be large fluxes of energetic electrons in the polar ionosphere. This subject is a matter of concern because these auroral fluxes could charge a spacecraft to large potentials.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 25, 1983
Accession Number
ADP002100

Entities

People

  • E. C. Whipple Jr.

Organizations

  • University of California, San Diego

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Buildings And Structures
  • Electrons
  • Environment
  • Geophysics
  • Ionosphere
  • Large Space Structures
  • Orbits
  • Polar Orbits
  • Research Facilities
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Vehicles
  • Workshops

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Space/Atmospheric Physics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Microelectronics
  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster