Transient response measurements on a satellite system

Abstract

A set of instruments designed to detect the occurance of electrical breakdown was flown on a synchronous-orbit satellite. The LeRC sensors were installed on cables inside the vehicle. Accordingly, they respond to signals coupled into the satellite wiring system. The SRI sensors were located on the exterior of the vehicle and detected the RF noise pulses associated with surface breakdowns. The results of the earlier SRI program are being used to design and develop a set of intrumentation suitable for inclusion as a general piggy-back package for the detection of the onset of satellite charging and breakdowns on synchronous orbit satellites.