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Orbital Debris Detector Sensor Subsystem. Elizabeth Jesse. Overview. SWESat Overview Sensor Requirements Previous Progress Current Phase Data / Necessary Changes Future Tasks. Purpose.
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Orbital Debris Detector Sensor Subsystem Elizabeth Jesse
Overview • SWESat Overview • Sensor Requirements • Previous Progress • Current Phase • Data / Necessary Changes • Future Tasks
Purpose • Debris smaller than a 10-30 cm cannot be detected from the Earth’s surface but does a majority of the damage to satellites; • Information on the smaller debris is extrapolated from space exposed surfaces returned to Earth; and • Information on higher altitude and higher angle of inclination orbits is based on conjecture.
Sensor Requirements • Record the size speed and direction of debris to improve existing debris models • Register signal from debris impact • Determine size between 10 µm and 1 cm • Determine speed • Determine direction • Mount on SWESat and/or as a payload on another mission.
Design • Sensor made of piezo film • polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) • Nickel and Aluminum • Both sides coated with Kapton (polyimide) Tape • Emits an electric signal when stressed • Wires connected to the nickel-aluminum coating transfer signal to the computer
SWESat Design • Prototype - 6 inch square of film in an aluminum frame • Each sensor will be electrically and structurally isolated • A grid pattern of these modules will make up the SWESat sensor
Sensor Testing • Low speed drop tests: • Metal tip darts • Various radius shot • Speed based on height • Medium speed testing: • 1.5 to 2 km/s • 10 µm to 1 cm • High speed testing • Up to 10 km/s • 10 µm to 1 cm
The Next Steps • Mount the Film on a substrate. • Retest in April 2008. • Analyze the data specifically as a payload on another mission. • Develop a method of testing that allows particle to pass through the sensor. • High Speed testing.