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DE-2 mass spectrometer observations relevant to the Shuttle glowA comparison of satellite mass spectrometer data from Dynamics Explorer-2 and Atmosphere Explorer-C and -D provides new evidence supporting the hypothesis that NO2 is the source of the observed continuum glow near ram-facing surfaces of the Space Shuttle. Surface reactions of thermospheric N and O in mass spectrometer ion sources produce NO and NO2 in amounts highly dependent on surface temperature and composition, with direct exposure of ion source surfaces to rammed gas a necessary condition for the production of large amounts of NO2. Initial orbit data indicate that a period of surface conditioning is necessary before these odd nitrogen molecules can be produced efficiently.
Document ID
19860042244
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Engebretson, M. J.
(Johns Hopkins University Laurel, MD, United States)
Hedin, A. E.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD , United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
February 1, 1986
Publication Information
Publication: Geophysical Research Letters
Volume: 13
ISSN: 0094-8276
Subject Category
Spacecraft Instrumentation
Accession Number
86A26982
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG5-349
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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