Deep-dielectric charging -- a review /
W.F. Denig, A.R. Frederickson.
Description
- Language(s)
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English
- Published
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Hanscom AFB, Massachusetts : Air Force Geophysics Laboratory, Air Force Systems Command, United States Air Force, 1985.
- Summary
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Deep dielectric charging as it pertains to polar orbiting spacecraft in low earth orbit (LEO) is reviewed. Fluxes of precipitating auroral electrons incident upon exposed spacecraft insulators can lead to significant spacecharge within the material. Deep dielectric charging is distinct from conventional notions of spacecraft charging which are concerned with the bulk charging of the vehicle relative to the space; that is, plasma, environment or with the differential charging of spacecraft components. The concern here is in the buildup of internal spacecharge which results in large electrostatic fields within the bulk or near the surface of the dielectric. Electrical breakdowns can result in the formation of permanent tunnels; that is, a Lichtenberg pattern, within the material and in the creation of blowoff channels and ejected plasma clouds at the surface. Dielectric discharging may also induce large displacement currents within spacecraft systems and, as such, is a potential hazard for the space system and astronaut crew. In order to mitigate the effects of deep dielectric charging it is recommended that exposed surface materials with high internal resistances be avoided whenever possible.
- Note
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"Space Physics Division Project 7661."
"24 May 1985."
Distributed to depository libraries in microfiche.
Cover title.
- Physical Description
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iv, 23 pages :
illustrations ;
28 cm.
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