The Retarding Potential Analyzer for Dynamics Explorer-B
Abstract
The Retarding Potential Analyzer for Dynamics Explorer B measures the bulk ion velocity in the direction of the spacecraft motion, the constituent ion concentrations and the ion temperature along the satellite path. These parameters are derived from a least squares fit to the ion number flux versus energy curve obtained by sweeping or stepping the voltage applied to the internal retarding grids of the RPA. In addition, the spectral characteristics of irregularities in the total ion concentration are determined by high time resolution measurements and by use of a comb filter. These data are obtained from a separate wide aperture-sensor.
- Publication:
-
Space Science Instrumentation
- Pub Date:
- December 1981
- Bibcode:
- 1981SSI.....5..503H
- Keywords:
-
- Dynamics Explorer 2 Satellite;
- Ion Probes;
- Satellite-Borne Instruments;
- Ion Motion;
- Ionospheric Ion Density;
- Ionospheric Sounding;
- Plasma Diagnostics;
- Spacecraft Instrumentation