A charge-exchange plasma, generated by an ion thruster, is capable of flowing upstream from the ion thruster and therefore represents a source of contamination to a spacecraft. An analytical model of the charge-exchange plasma density around a spacecraft is used to estimate the contamination which various spacecraft materials may be exposed to. Measurements of plasma density around an ion thruster are compared to this model. Results of experimental studies regarding the effects on various spacecraft materials' properties due to exposure to expected mercury contamination levels are presented.


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    Title :

    Ion thruster plume effects on spacecraft surfaces


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    Joint Propulsion Conference ; 1980 ; Hartford, CT


    Publication date :

    1980-06-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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