Procedure for using onboard systems and scientific equipment during space experiment Plasma-ISS to study electrical and physical parameters of the environment in the vicinity of the ISS

The paper describes the features of the environment in the vicinity of the International Space Station (ISS), associated with the currents between oppositely charged structural elements of the space station. It presents objectives and tasks of a space experiment to study plasma environment on the outer surface of the ISS, conducted within the program of applied scientific research on the Russian Segment. Determined in the course of the experiment were relationships between the range of intensities of currents in the station plasma environment and its configuration and orbital position, firing of the attitude control thrusters and other systems that release gasses, seasonal variation in the external space environment. The paper discusses various options for setting up measuring sessions and procedures for using onboard science and systems equipment during these sessions. The procedures are based on the use of equipment available onboard the station without the need to build additional scientific equipment, which makes it possible to obtain new scientific results with minimal expenditure of funds and time.