Characterizing Dusty Plasmas Formed by Hypervelocity Impacts Through Experiments and Particle-In-Cell (PIC) Simulations
Abstract
One component of the space environment that has yet to be fully understood is the plasma that forms when a hypervelocity particle, such as a meteoroid or piece of space debris, impacts a spacecraft. Plasma is generated both from thermal ionization and from pressure ionization and can range from weakly to fully ionized, depending on the particle’s velocity. Because the plasma density within the impact crater is on the same order of magnitude as the number density of the solid target, this type of matter is called warm dense matter (WDM) or non-ideal plasma. This plasma can also contain a dust component, which is particularly relevant for the lower-velocity range of hypervelocity impacts. We propose to probe the complex behavior of dusty impact plasma to understand the interaction of radiation with matter and the effect of the space environment on systems and sensors. We will develop particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations to model the dusty plasma, and execute an impact experiment at a light-gas gun facility. The primary motivation for this research is to provide significant advances in our knowledge of dusty hypervelocity impact plasmas, which are a key component of the space environment. In particular, we will investigate (1) how the Coulomb coupling parameter and interaction range depend on the initial conditions of the impact and the temporal expansion of the plasma, (2) the initial plasma density and temperature corresponding to the dust component and how it modifies plasma charge motion, and (3) how the presence of dust within the plasma can modify RF propagation, causing multiple cutoffs and a resonance within the expanding plasma.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 09, 2018
- Source ID
- FA95501810117
Entities
People
- Sigrid Close
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Stanford University
- United States Air Force