SHUTTLE ORBITER TETHERED SUBSATELLITE FOR EXPLORING AND TAPPING SPACE PLASMAS.

Peter M. Banks, P. Roger Williamson, Koh Ichiro Oyama

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Citations (Scopus)

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 languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)31-33
Number of pages3
JournalAstronautics & aeronautics New York, N.Y.
Volume19
Issue number2
Publication statusPublished - 1981

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'SHUTTLE ORBITER TETHERED SUBSATELLITE FOR EXPLORING AND TAPPING SPACE PLASMAS.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this