Chapter 15 - Extreme Space Weather Spacecraft Surface Charging and Arcing Effects

Abstract

The discussion is limited to spacecraft surface charging events, excluding deep-dielectric discharge events. The cause of arcing is determined to be differential charging. The effects of arcing are described and illustrated. We discuss the physics of charging, why spacecraft charge negatively, and the roles of photoemission and secondary electron emission in frame and differential charging. The spacecraft charging equation is explored. The role of spacecraft charging computer codes is delineated. We define extreme spacecraft charging events, and explain why the worst events for other effects may not be the worst for spacecraft charging. Examples are given from severe space weather events of the past. Natural limits on spacecraft charging are determined, and the maximum frame charging and differential charging are calculated. We give the reasons spacecraft charging is important for our modern civilization, and define the worst events as those with the longest duration, maximizing satellite exposures to charging conditions.