A summary of the CHARGE-2 electron beam rocket experimentThe major purpose of the CHARGE-2 experiment was to study the interaction of a vehicle at high potential (up to 1 kV) with the ionosphere. The payload consisted of two parts that were separated during the flight. The high potential was obtained by electron emission from the mother vehicle, and by voltage-biasing of the daughter vehicle. Measurements of transient vehicle potential were obtained with a sample internal of 100 ns. The mother current collection exhibited magnetic limitations above 240 km. Below 240 km the mother collected a current far in excess of the magnetically limited models. This demonstrates the ability of an electron beam to interact with the neutral atmosphere at altitudes below 240 km.
Document ID
19900051640
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Myers, Neil B. (USAF, Rome Air Development Center Hanscom AFB, MA, United States)
Raitt, W. John (Utah State University Logan, United States)