A modelling of West Ford needles clusters: interaction with electromagnetic radiation
Abstract
Radar observation of small space debris made with the Goldstone radar station facility has shown that a population of small particles do exist at an altitude larger than 2000 km. This population has been identified with clusters of copper needles created upon the deployment of the West Ford needles project, by the MIDAS satellites in 1961 and 1963. This set of particles is not currently taken into account in the debris models. However it could affect, for instance, the spaceborne astronomical experiments. In order to assess this threat it is necessary to model their physical and geometric characteristics. A preliminary modelling as effective spheres requires too crude assumptions and leads to inaccurate results. We propose a better approach using long conductive cylinders as a model for the clusters. The interaction of solar light with these particles allows us to estimate the spurious flux scattered inside spaceborne instruments. We conclude that for a given spatial configuration light flashes affect seriously the operating mode of high sensitivity instruments. Clusters must be taken into account in the planing and in the design of future astronomical missions.
- Publication:
-
35th COSPAR Scientific Assembly
- Pub Date:
- 2004
- Bibcode:
- 2004cosp...35..926M