Multi-layer insulation model for MASTER-2009

• Published in: Acta astronautica 2011-12, Vol.69 (11), p.911-922
• Main Authors: Flegel, Sven K., Gelhaus, Johannes, Möckel, Marek, Wiedemann, Carsten, Krag, Holger, Klinkrad, Heiner, Vörsmann, Peter
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: MASTER; Modeling; Multi-layer insulation; Space debris
• ISSN: 0094-5765; 1879-2030
• DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2011.06.015

ESA's approach in modeling the space debris environment is based on the simulation of all known debris creation mechanisms and comparing the results to measurements for validation. Discovery of a new source of debris with very high area-to-mass ratios and high reflectivity prompted the study of processes by which the most likely candidate, MLI debris, could be created. Two models have been developed at the Institute of Aerospace Systems of the Technische Universität of Braunschweig to simulate the possible creation of MLI debris through fragmentation events and through aging related delamination. The version in which these two models were integrated into ESA's Meteoroid And Space Debris Terrestrial Environment Reference Model (MASTER) is presented in the current paper. Comparisons of the simulated objects to the measurement data from observation campaigns from ESA's Space Debris Telescope show adequate correlation for all relevant campaigns between 2004 and 2007. The observation campaigns are simulated using ESA's Program for Radar and Optical Observation Forecasting (PROOF) which uses MASTER's population as input to give a realistic prediction of the outcome of the actual observation campaigns. The comparison shows that the current MLI models close a gap in the observations of the GEO region. This however does not mean that the observed objects are indeed MLI debris. For May 1, 2009, the models predict 5750 MLI objects larger than 10 cm to be in orbit. The spatial density distribution over altitude shows a clear peak for 900 km altitude with quick decrease towards lower altitudes. A smooth decline in density up to GEO altitude results from high solar radiation pressure influence. The debris evolution over time follows that of LMRO objects above 1 mm. ► Presentation of two models for simulating Multi-Layer Insulation as space debris. ► Derivation of models from retrieved surfaces and from ground tests. ► Historic evolution of Multi-Layer Insulation space debris 1957–2009. ► Validation by comparing to observations of ESA's Space Debris Telescope.