Abstract
Many novel electrodynamic and space plasma physics experiments can be done from the Space Shuttle using a subsatellite mechanically tethered above the Orbiter by a long conducting wire. The large emf generated by the motion of the wire across geomagnetic field lines makes it possible to collect electrons at the subsatellite and eject them for the Orbiter. This system, called the Shuttle Electrodynamic Tether System (SETS), can be used to study many different problems of space plasma physics, including artificial stimulation of hydromagnetic waves in the Earth's magnetosphere, threshold levels of various current-driven plasma instabilities, and the generation of VLF radio signals. It is also possible that SETS will be used as a new means of generating electric power aboard the Orbiter.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 31-33 |
| Number of pages | 3 |
| Journal | Astronautics & aeronautics New York, N.Y. |
| Volume | 19 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| Publication status | Published - 1981 Jan 1 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Engineering(all)