A method for statistically estimating the atomic oxygen fluence on LEO spacecraft
Abstract
Atomic oxygen (AO) is a corrosive component of the upper atmosphere which can erode external materials on satellites, especially polymers. LEO satellite designers need to estimate the thickness of erosive materials to use in... [ view full abstract ]
Atomic oxygen (AO) is a corrosive component of the upper atmosphere which can erode external materials on satellites, especially polymers. LEO satellite designers need to estimate the thickness of erosive materials to use in order to maintain acceptable end of life material properties. We here outline a methodology to estimate the mission-length AO fluence with uncertainties and confidence levels from an empirical model of the thermosphere, a long history of thermospheric drivers, and a LEO orbit. This allows the AO environment to be included in LEO spacecraft design with a similar risk posture as other space environments; namely specifying the AO fluence level a mission will not exceed with 95 percent confidence. In this paper we will describe the methodology, use it to estimate AO specifications for example LEO orbits, and validate the calculated AO fluence with International Space Station measurements.
Authors
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Timothy Guild
(The Aerospace Corporation)
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PAUL OBRIEN
(The Aerospace Corporation)
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Joe Mazur
(The Aerospace Corporation)
Topic Areas
Modeling , Ionosphere, Neutral Atmosphere, Planetary , Atmospheric Effects (e.g., drag, AO, sputtering, glow)
Session
Session 10 » Modeling and Observations (09:00 - Friday, 19th May)
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