Analytic models for a rapidly spinning spherical satellite charging in sunlight

Details Analytic models for a rapidly spinning spherical satellite charging in sunlight Analytic models for a rapidly spinning spherical satellite charging in sunlight

Jul 2005

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2005jgra..11007220t&link_type=abstract

Journal of Geophysical Research, Volume 110, Issue A7, CiteID A07220

Physics

Plasma Physics

2

Space Plasma Physics: Spacecraft Sheaths, Wakes, Charging, Space Plasma Physics: Electrostatic Structures, Space Plasma Physics: General Or Miscellaneous, Magnetospheric Physics: General Or Miscellaneous

Scientific paper

We present elementary analytic models for a fast-spinning, dielectric-coated, spherical spacecraft charging in sunlight. The models are based on a multipole expansion of Laplacian potentials external to the spacecraft surface. We assume azimuthal symmetry about the spin axis, and the spin period must be short compared with surface differential charging times. There are three parameters in the models: the monopole potential, the relative strength of the dipole/quadrupole components with respect to the monopole, and a mixing angle. The combination of monopole potentials along with the dipole or quadrupole contributions produce potential barriers which form at the satellite surface. These barriers can act to block escaping photoelectrons and lead to current balance, allowing sunlight charging to high negative levels. The sunlit side charges less (negatively) than the shade side and the ratio of Sun to shade potentials is near its threshold value for high-level charging. We have calculated more general cases with various values of Sun angle relative to the spin axis by combining the dipole and quadrupole components. The potential barrier shape and area vary for different cases and the maximum barrier approximately follows the Sun angle. We stress that for physical interpretation of data obtained on board, one should take into account the potential distribution and where the instrument is located.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Analytic models for a rapidly spinning spherical satellite charging in sunlight does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Analytic models for a rapidly spinning spherical satellite charging in sunlight, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Analytic models for a rapidly spinning spherical satellite charging in sunlight will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1251873