Laboratory Tests on 110-Volt Solar Arrays in Simulated Geosynchronous Orbit Environment

NASA GRC and MSFC Space Plasma Arc Testing Procedures

“…Thus, samples may arc at a less negative bias in LEO than in GEO. Cho et al [13] have shown that whereas standard array samples may show arcing at −150 to −200 V in a simulated LEO plasma, in a simulated GEO plasma similar samples may have an arcing threshold at about −400 V. Recently, Vayner et al [14] have shown a factor of three higher threshold voltage for solar arrays in the simulated GEO conditions compared to LEO.…”

“…After the fact, individual arc sites can be located from time-stamps on the arc-detection circuitry. In fact, Cho et al [13] have developed a special technique to image a sample on a charge coupled device (CCD) camera and to digitize the positions of the arc sites with a computer program.…”

Evaluation of Electron-emitting Film for Spacecraft Charging Mitigation (ELFs Charm)

“…During this state, it is considered that ESD is not likely to occur because the threshold value of the potential different for a discharge to occur is about several kilovolts for normal potential gradient, whereas the threshold is only about 400V for inverted potential gradient. 7) Through this process, ELFs-charm is therefore capable to mitigate ESD on solar arrays and spacecraft. In 2012, Kyushu Institute of Technology launched HORYU-II to a Polar Earth Orbit to do flight demonstration of ELFs-charm.…”

Degradation of High-Voltage Solar Array Due to Arcing in Plasma Environment

“…The cells have IBF (Integration Bypass Fumction), which allows the current flow from N to P electrode in the cell even if the cell can not generate the electric power. The gap between strings are glued by RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) silicone rubber to prevent the sustained arc [8,9].…”