Electrostatics is one of major concerns of spacecraft technology. Space is filled with hot and low-density plasma building up high differential voltages resulting in electrostatic discharges, sometimes causing an anomalous behavior of spacecraft electronics. The interaction of the satellite with its environment induces a static charge of the various materials which it is made of. The flow and the evacuation of the charges would require a conductive satellite. Unfortunately, the reality is different and satellites are covered with dielectric materials highly resistant for thermo-optic specific purpose. It is resulting in a absolute charge value of the structure of the satellite and in a differential charge built-up between its components that can be at the origin of electrostatic discharges which consequences can end up in the loss of the satellite itself. Typical anomalies will be reviewed, it will be shown how they can be recognized as consequences of environmental induced discharges. The distribution of charges over different parts of the spacecraft is depending of ambient conditions: plasma temperature and density and sun illumination. Surface and internal charging are possible; they result in dielectric or metal arcing discharges. Understanding of charging phenomena allows us to define mitigation techniques by controlling charging, electromagnetic interference. At last, we will end with the presentation of what it is done in France and in Europe though activities in the domain of space environment in order to take into account problems in a more general context.


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    Title :

    Electrostatic behaviour of materials in a charging space environment


    Contributors:
    Catani, J.P. (author) / Payan, D. (author)


    Publication date :

    2003


    Size :

    14 Seiten, 12 Quellen



    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English




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