Flashover propagation of plasma on a solar panel is considered from a physics standpoint. Although useful as a first attempt to describe the flashover phenomenon, the previous perimeter theory is shown to have many areas in need of improvement before it can be used as a guide for spacecraft solar array design. A new, more physical picture is developed here. Results from the U.S. Round-Robin Experiments on Plasma Propagation Speed are used to elaborate the physical principles. The new model explains simultaneous current onset, peaks, and cutoffs at all distances; multiple peaks moving at different velocities; and nonthermal directed velocities. Further elaboration is needed before such a model can be used as a reliable guide to flashover pulse peaks, widths, and electrostatic discharge; but, as it stands, the model corrects many of the perimeter theory’s deficiencies.
Considerations of Flashover Propagation
Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets ; 55 , 1 ; 116-124
2017-08-31
9 pages
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
Aerial flashover caused by surface flashover generated from microscopic pores of insulating solid
Online Contents | 2012
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