Understanding Spacecraft Charging: Effects of Charged Particles on Spacecraft Operations

What is it about?

As a spacecraft travels through space, it encounters a mix of charged particles from its surroundings. These particles strike the spacecraft's surface, causing it to accumulate an electrostatic charge. This charge can be either positive or negative, depending on the density and temperature of incoming electrons and ions. A current balance is achieved when the incoming and outgoing currents of charged particles equalize. Additionally, external sources such as electric thrusters, which are crucial for propulsion, emit various charged particles. The combined effects of the space environment and externally charged particles create a complex interaction that results in spacecraft charging. In certain instances, spacecraft can accumulate an excessive negative or positive charge, leading to significant anomalies and mission failures. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly study this interaction to gain a deeper understanding of how spacecraft behave in different plasma conditions. This research will aid in spacecraft design and the positioning of instruments to prevent operational issues arising from spacecraft charging.

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Photo by NASA on Unsplash

Photo by NASA on Unsplash