NASA-HDBK-4006

Abstract

The information in this handbook presents an overview of the current understanding of the various plasma interactions that can result when a high-voltage system is operated in the Earth's ionosphere, references common design practices that have exacerbated plasma interactions in the past, and recommends standard practices to eliminate or mitigate such reactions. <br><strong>Purpose</strong> <br>The purpose of this handbook is to provide design guidance referenced in NASA-STD-4005, <em>Low Earth Orbit Spacecraft Charging Design Standard</em>, for high-voltage space power systems (&gt;55 volts) that operate in the plasma environment associated with LEO (altitude from 200 and 1000 km and latitude between -50 and +50 degrees). Such power systems, particularly solar arrays, are the proximate cause of spacecraft charging in LEO, and these systems can interact with this environment in a number of ways that are potentially destructive to themselves as well as to the platform or vehicle that has deployed them. <br><strong>Applicability</strong> <br>This handbook is applicable to high-voltage space power systems that operate in the plasma environment associated with LEO (see NASA-STD-4005). <br>This handbook may be referenced in contract, program, and other Agency documents for guidance.