Experimental Study of Solar Array-Plasma Interaction
Abstract
The results are presented of an experimental study of arc phenomena and snap over for five types of solar array samples immersed in xenon plasma. I-V curves are measured, and arc and snap over inception voltages, essential parameters, are essential parameters, and arc rates are determined. It is shown that the array with wrap through interconnects has the highest arc threshold and the lowest current collection. Cover glass design with overhang results increase of current collection and increase of arc threshold. Doubling cover glass thickness does not improve measured array parameters. Both arc inception volts and current collection increase significantly with increasing a sample temperature to 80 degrees C. Arc sites have been determine by employing a video-camera. The results obtained seem to be important for the progress toward employment of high-voltage solar array in Low Earth Orbit.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 20, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADP014971
Entities
People
- B. V. Vayner
- D. C. Ferguson
- J. T. Galofaro
Organizations
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration