Lorentz Force Effects on Orbit and Lifetime of Micrometer-Size Space Debris

Abstract

In this Paper, through an orbital calculation using a developed orbital model, the effects of the Lorentz force on micrometer-size debris are studied from two perspectives: orbital changes and lifetime changes. First, with respect to orbital changes, the effects of the actual geomagnetic field and charge variation during orbital motion are assessed. It is revealed that, under the condition of an actual geomagnetic field, the Lorentz force is likely to cause secular changes in the semimajor axis and eccentricity. When considering the charge variation during orbital motion, the Lorentz force is likely to cause secular changes in orbital inclination. Second, with respect to lifetime changes, the debris lifetimes of cases with and without the Lorentz force are compared. A comparison of simulation results shows that the Lorentz force generally causes the lifetimes of objects to decrease. In addition, the Lorentz force significantly decreases the lifetimes of debris in particular orbits. Therefore, it can be concluded that the Lorentz force can generate a region wherein micrometer-size debris cannot survive for a long time. In this regard, the Lorentz force can create a new trend of the distribution for micrometer-size debris in low Earth orbit.