Date of Award

5-2005

Degree Type

Report

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Committee Chair(s)

Charles M. Swenson

Committee

Charles M. Swenson

Committee

Cynthia Furse

Committee

Thomas F. Berkey

Abstract

To provide in-situ plasma diagnostic ability aboard the International Space Station, NASA-Johnson procured the Floating Potential Measurement Unit (FPMU) from Utah State University - Space Dynamics Laboratory in September 2001. The FPMU sensor suite is comprised of a Floating Potential Probe, two sweeping Langmuir Probes, and a Radio Frequency Probe. The FPMU is to be operational for a period of at least three years to cover the major construction phase of the International Space Station. The FPMU will make measurements of ISS floating potential as well as plasma density and temperature, which are the primary environmental factors that effect ISS charging levels. Instrument and measurement redundancy were made integral to the FPMU design for instrument reliability and to reduce the cost and complexity of the measurement validation process. The complete set of FPMU system requirements, design, test, and calibration are presented in this thesis paper.

Share

COinS