Class
Article
College
College of Science
Department
Physics Department
Faculty Mentor
JR Dennison
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
The Lunar Gateway Space Station is meant to aid in the re-exploration of the moon and must be able to survive the harsh conditions in space, specifically solar electron radiation. The experiment investigated potential materials for the Gateway mission and how they withstand high energy electron bombardment meant to mimic a portion of this solar radiation. Potential material damage that can impact spacecraft performance includes charging, arc-induced blow off, and changes in color and other optical properties. The samples were exposed to a beam of high energy electrons (30 keV) for several minutes, while current and video data was recorded. The location, magnitude and timing of charging and discharge was also monitored during beam exposure using visible videos to detect cathodoluminescence and arc discharges. High resolution photos of the samples taken before and after beam exposure are used to investigate electron-beam induced changes. The resulting data indicates locations of possible damage done through certain mechanisms such as electrostatic breakdown (ESD), which can occur when voltage variance within the material exceeds the dielectric strength, creating destructive current paths within the material. The highly insulating materials tested included a complex fiberglass weave (Betacloth) and perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA). PFA showed the most signs of damage, especially optical discoloration. Any other small scale signs of physical damage are still being investigated. The results of this experiment will then be submitted to NASA for consideration in regards to the Gateway project. Presentation Time: Wednesday, 1-2 p.m.
Location
Logan, UT
Start Date
4-11-2021 12:00 AM
Included in
Solar Electron Radiation Effects on NASA Space Station Samples
Logan, UT
The Lunar Gateway Space Station is meant to aid in the re-exploration of the moon and must be able to survive the harsh conditions in space, specifically solar electron radiation. The experiment investigated potential materials for the Gateway mission and how they withstand high energy electron bombardment meant to mimic a portion of this solar radiation. Potential material damage that can impact spacecraft performance includes charging, arc-induced blow off, and changes in color and other optical properties. The samples were exposed to a beam of high energy electrons (30 keV) for several minutes, while current and video data was recorded. The location, magnitude and timing of charging and discharge was also monitored during beam exposure using visible videos to detect cathodoluminescence and arc discharges. High resolution photos of the samples taken before and after beam exposure are used to investigate electron-beam induced changes. The resulting data indicates locations of possible damage done through certain mechanisms such as electrostatic breakdown (ESD), which can occur when voltage variance within the material exceeds the dielectric strength, creating destructive current paths within the material. The highly insulating materials tested included a complex fiberglass weave (Betacloth) and perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA). PFA showed the most signs of damage, especially optical discoloration. Any other small scale signs of physical damage are still being investigated. The results of this experiment will then be submitted to NASA for consideration in regards to the Gateway project. Presentation Time: Wednesday, 1-2 p.m.