To generate a library of material properties required by simulation codes for surface and internal charging for a number of common materials

 

Spacecraft charging (either surface or internal) is experienced to one degree or another by all spacecraft. The effects of high charging levels are electrostatic discharge and consequent damage to spacecraft equipment. Lower charging levels can also be a problem for scientific spacecraft because of the modification of the environment around the spacecraft and the interference of scientific measurements. As a result, simulations are used to make charging assessments as part of the spacecraft design process. Currently the lack of good material characterisation is a major problem in the accuracy of charging simulations. Some partial data are available, mostly from studies more than 20 years ago. This activity aims to build up a library of good material information by executing laboratory tests of common space materials, including as a minimum good characterisation of secondary and photoelectron emission and conductivity. As a related development, properties of existing materials with anti-static properties will be investigated. The activity shall look at charging mitigation strategies for surface and internal charging, in particular leaky insulators and the use of conformal coatings on floating metals.