Space Environmental Study for ASTROD I

Paper number

IAC-07-D5.2.01

Author

Dr. Zhang Qingxiang, China Academy of Space Technology, China

Coauthor

Coauthor

Dr. Li Wang, China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), China

Year

2007

Abstract

ASTROD I mission (Two-Way Interferometric and Pulse Laser Ranging between Spacecraft and Ground Laser Station)is a space science programs proposed by Wei-Tou Ni from Purple Mountain Observatory(PMO), Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS). The science objects of ASTROD I mission are: (1) testing relativistic gravity 3-order-of-magnitude improvement in sensitivity; (2) Astrodynamics \& solar-system parameter determination improved by 1-3 orders of magnitude; (3) improving gravitational-wave detection compared to radio Doppler tracking (Auxiliary goal). The distance between the Sun and ASTRODI satellite is from 0.5 AU to 1.04 AU. Without shielding of Earth’s magnetosphere, the satellite will be exposed fully to galaxy cosmic rays, solar event particle and solar wind. The space environment effect on some enable techniques for ASTRODI, such as electronics, lasers, capacitive sensors, thrusters and optics will influence reliability and life span of ASTROD I. So considering the space environment and its effect as early as possible is very important for ASTROD I.
In this paper, radiation environment from galaxy cosmic ray (GCR), solar event particles (SEP), solar wind and solar electromagnetic radiation are considered. Main radiation effects on ASTROD I, including total dose effect in electronics, displacement damage in lasers, darkening \ contamination in optical are discussed.
Because solar event particles (SEP) will be a big challenge for ASTROD I ,local space environment data is needed for anomaly resolution, risk avoidance of ASTROD I satellite and charge management of test materials. So it’s proposed that ASTROD I have a radiation monitor onboard. The space environment data collected by ASTROD I in inner heliosphere will be very helpful for future interplanetary space program.

Abstract document

IAC-07-D5.2.01.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-07-D5.2.01.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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