Analysis and Simulation of Space Charge Effects on satellite surfaces and multi-layer insulation

The ions in the space environment cause the surface and internal charging phenomenon in satellites. The accumulated potential during the charging phenomenon can cause electrostatic discharge and seriously endanger the satellite telecommunication components. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the possibility of electrostatic discharge on satellite surfaces in low earth orbit (LEO) environment and to reduce this possibility in order to reduce the risk of damage to satellite surfaces and components. First, the surface charging phenomenon is simulated in an aluminum satellite in low earth orbit and then in polar aurora by SPIS software. Then multi-layer thermal insulation is applied to the system and its effects on the charging phenomenon are investigated. Research has shown that adding MLI layers will increase the risk of electrostatic discharge. Therefore, in the next steps, the effect of the grounding system in reducing the risk was investigated. By connecting the layers to the ground in a proper way, the possibility of discharge between the layers and the body and between the layers with each other is minimized, which leads to the achievement of an optimal system.