MSFC-RQMT-2966

Abstract

This document defines the Propulsive Small Expendable Deployer System (ProSEDS) Flight Program Hollow Cathode Plasma Contactor (HCPC) system hardware design specifications. It further describes the plasma contactor verification process, describes the applicable requirements, defines the types, frequency, and format of information required to ensure correct implementation of the functional requirements throughout all phases of the program. <br>Purpose of Using Plasma Contactor. The purpose of using the plasma contactor is to facilitate the current flow through the tether. With this continuous current flow, the ProSEDS objectives such as thrust and current collection can be demonstrated. Using the plasma contactor, the electrons collected from the bare tether will be emitted into the space ionosphere, preventing spacecraft charging and plasma effects such as arcing and sputtering to occur.