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Remote sensing and characterization of anomalous debrisThe analysis of orbital debris data shows a band of anomalously high debris concentration in the altitude range between 800 and 1000 km. Analysis indicates that the origin is the leaking coolant fluid from nuclear power sources that powered a now defunct Soviet space-based series of ocean surveillance satellites. A project carried out to detect, track and characterize a sample of the anomalous debris is reported. The nature of the size and shape of the sample set, and the possibility of inferring the composition of the droplets were assessed. The technique used to detect, track and characterize the sample set is described and the results of the characterization analysis are presented. It is concluded that the nature of the debris is consistent with leaked Na-K fluid, although this cannot be proved with the remote sensing techniques used.
Document ID
19980005925
Acquisition Source
Johnson Space Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Sridharan, R.
(Massachusetts Inst. of Tech. Lexington, MA United States)
Beavers, W.
(Massachusetts Inst. of Tech. Lexington, MA United States)
Lambour, R.
(Massachusetts Inst. of Tech. Lexington, MA United States)
Gaposchkin, E. M.
(Massachusetts Inst. of Tech. Lexington, MA United States)
Kansky, J.
(Massachusetts Inst. of Tech. Lexington, MA United States)
Stansbery, E.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Date Acquired
August 17, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1997
Subject Category
Astronautics (General)
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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