Assessment of charging behaviour of METEOSAT satellite in geosynchronous environment

Operational anomalies on the first two European weather satellites METEOSAT have been attributed to spacecraft charging. An investigative program including NASCAP calculations and laboratory tests has been complemented. The respective influences of sun illumination and a seasonal effect on large insulated areas and floating metallization have been assessed. NASCAP results together with test data suggest a scenario for electrostatic discharge generation. Material design changes have been assessed through NASCAP simulation.<
>