An analytical model of the charging of a spacecraft emitting electron and ion beams has been applied to the case of large spacecraft. In this model, ionization occurs in the sheath due to the return current. Charge neutralization of spherical space charge flow is examined by solving analytical equations numerically. Parametric studies of potential large spacecraft are performed. As in the case of small spacecraft, the ions created in the sheath by the returning current play a large role in determining spacecraft potential.


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    Title :

    Sheath ionization model of beam emissions from large spacecraft


    Contributors:
    Lai, S. T. (author) / Cohen, H. A. (author) / Bhavnani, K. H. (author) / Tautz, M. E. (author)


    Publication date :

    1985-03-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English