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Momentum distribution in debris cloud during hypervelocity impactThe long term operation of the Space Station Freedom requires a scheme to protect it from high velocity impacts by both man-made particles and micrometeor fragments. One such scheme is the use of metal plates to serve as shields against such orbital debris. These 'bumper' plates, as they are referred to, serve to break up any incident particle and redistribute its momentum over a larger area. It is therefore necessary to determine the momentum distribution within the debris cloud produced by such collisions in order to evaluate a materials effectiveness at accomplishing this task. This paper details the design and development of an innovative device which has made this possible. Momentum profiles were obtained for a series of test conditions. Total momentum values in the debris cloud were then calculated from these profiles. These results indicated that a momentum amplification exists with a multiplication factor of between 2 and 3. Thus the role of the bumper to serve as a means for momentum redistribution and not reduction was verified.
Document ID
19920056143
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Lemaster, P.
(Auburn University AL, United States)
Mount, A.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Zee, R. H.
(Auburn University AL, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
March 1, 1992
Subject Category
Astronautics (General)
Report/Patent Number
AIAA PAPER 92-1724
Accession Number
92A38767
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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