Electrostatic discharge problem in geostationary spacecraft electrojet propulsion subsystem

The electrostatic charge can collect on spacecraft electric propulsion thrusters’ elements owing to magnetospheric plasma high-energy electrons influence. There is a discharge on reaching critical level. Electrostatic discharge influence on electric circuits of propulsion subsystem can lead to equipment faults, including transformation and control systems (SPU). To the decision of the problems connected with electrostatic discharge influence on electric circuits of the power-transform equipment, intended for a supply and control of spacecraft electric propulsion system now are given great attention to underway design as electric thrusters and their transformation and control systems, and spacecraft electric propulsion systems as a whole. The reason for that is the fact that SPU resistance to electrostatic discharge influence in its output power electric circuits is considered as one of the factors defining reliability and non-failure operation of these equipment and, accordingly, of spacecraft electric propulsion system as a whole. The theme urgency is caused by wide application of electric thrusters in geostationary spacecraft electric propulsion systems, and also conversion to the new SPU designs intended on untight spacecraft platforms, using of new radio-electronic elements base. Profound studying of the questions connected with electrostatic charge accumulation in spacecraft dielectric elements physics, the external conditions promoting specified accumulation, and the subsequent electrostatic discharges, allows to approach in a new way to interpretation of the phenomena taking place at spacecraft electric propulsion systems operation. Nevertheless, complex of research works carrying out is required for maintenance of forecasting and supervision of electric propulsion charge processes, and also introduction of optimum preventive power-transform equipment protection measures.