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  • Issues associated with standardization of ground test methods of electrostatic discharge phenomena on spacecraft surface

    Paper number

    IAC-05-D5.1.03

    Author

    Prof. Mengu Cho, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Japan

    Coauthor

    Dr. Tateo Goka, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

    Year

    2005

    Abstract
    As satellite power level increases, there is more demand of careful ground test on satellite power system, such as solar array, wire harness and others. Surface charging due to substorm in GEO, aurora particles in PEO and high voltage power generation in LEO leads to electrostatic discharge (ESD). Once arc plasma is coupled into the satellite power circuit, there is a possibility of catastrophic sustained arc that sometime kills the entire satellite functions. Repeated discharge leads to degradation of solar cell performance, thermo-optical surface property and others. 
    Because the failure of power system now constitutes major portion of recent satellite failures, careful pre-launch ground test is now demanded. International atmosphere surrounding commercial telecommunication satellites calls for common international standard on test conditions. In this paper, we review ESD tests of satellite power apparatus, especially solar array, carried out in recent years at Kyushu Institute of Technology with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The purpose of this paper is to describe the test conditions with the reasons of selecting those conditions and how we certified the insulation strength of given design against electrostatic discharges in orbit. The paper is aimed to stimulate discussion among experts on the issue of international standardization of solar array ESD test.
    Abstract document

    IAC-05-D5.1.03.pdf

    Manuscript document

    IAC-05-D5.1.03.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

    To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.