Charging analysis approach on COSMO skymed second generation spacecraft

The interaction of a space system with its orbital environment is a major consideration in the design of any space system, since a variety of hazards are associated with the operation of spacecraft in the harsh space environment. The COSMO second generation satellites cross the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) that is usually considered less hazardous than high altitude geosynchronous (GEO) satellites, except when crossing the auroral oval where high energy low density plasma is encountered [1]. In this paper a prediction activity aimed to estimate the surface potentials of the COSMO 2nd generation satellite during the polar orbit is described. The free, open-source Spacecraft Plasma Interaction Software (SPIS) available for Spacecraft Plasma Interaction Network in Europe (SPINE) community [2] was applied to model satellite structures and materials, as well plasma environment and finally to evaluate the surfaces potentials. © 2016 ESA.