Satellite Microwave Communication Signal Degradation Due To Hall Thruster Plasma Plumes
Abstract
We have developed a geometric optics vector ray-tracing code, BeamServer, for analyzing the effects of Hall thruster plasma plumes on satellite microwave communication signals. The possible effects include main beam attenuation and squinting, side lobe degradation, and induced cross-polarization. We report on a study of Hall current thruster (HCT) mounting positions on a realistic satellite configuration and a study with a highly shaped reflector. Results indicate HCT signal degradation can occur and should be considered in the satellite design process. Initial results of antenna pattern perturbations due to low frequency plume oscillations driven by thruster instabilities are also given.
- Publication:
-
APS Division of Plasma Physics Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- October 2001
- Bibcode:
- 2001APS..DPPKP1056W