What is it about?

Surface charging at geosynchronous altitude refers to the accumulation of electric charge on the surface of satellites and spacecraft when they orbit at the geosynchronous altitude around Earth. This phenomenon poses a significant concern for space missions because extreme surface charging events can lead to malfunctions and anomalies in spacecraft systems. During substorms, the plasma environment around Earth's geosynchronous orbit exhibits complex behavior, which is better modeled as two-temperature non-Maxwellian plasma. To understand and mitigate the effects of surface charging, researchers employ advanced techniques such as the two-temperature q-non-extensive distribution function.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

Surface charging at geosynchronous altitude poses significant challenges for satellites and spacecraft, necessitating advanced modeling techniques and mitigation strategies. By leveraging insights from non-Maxwellian plasma distributions, researchers can enhance our understanding of surface charging dynamics and develop robust solutions for safer space exploration.

Perspectives

The exploration of surface charging at geosynchronous altitude offers a fascinating perspective on the challenges and opportunities within space science and technology. At its core, this exploration delves into the intricate interactions between spacecraft and the plasma environment surrounding Earth's geosynchronous orbit. It underscores the delicate balance between innovation and risk mitigation in our quest for safer and more reliable space missions.

Engr Dr Ghulam Jaffer

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Numerical Calculations of Charging Threshold at GEO Altitudes With Two Temperature Non‐Extensive Electrons, Space Weather, October 2023, American Geophysical Union (AGU),
DOI: 10.1029/2022sw003412.
You can read the full text:

Read

Contributors

The following have contributed to this page