Observation of Multipactor Effects in Space-Based RF Environments

Abstract

An experimental setup was designed and implemented for the study of the multipactor effect in a rectangular waveguide under high vacuum. The experiment and test piece were constructed using WR 284 waveguide sections operating at S- Band frequencies. Multipactor effects are to be detected via an Electron Multiplier Tube (EMT). The test setup includes sections of standard WR 284 waveguide which will be in line with a custom test piece. Design of the test setup incorporates a standard piece of waveguide with a custom steel collar which can be used to insert different tapers, and even periodic structures into the hollowed out broadside wall. A solid state RF transmitter with 2.8 kW peak power and a center frequency of 2.85 GHz is used to inject an RF signal into the test section.