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Analysis of Electromagnetic Wave Propagation in a Magnetized Re-Entry Plasma Sheath Via the Kinetic EquationBased on a theoretical model of the propagation of electromagnetic waves through a hypersonically induced plasma, it has been demonstrated that the classical radiofrequency communications blackout that is experienced during atmospheric reentry can be mitigated through the appropriate control of an external magnetic field of nominal magnitude. The model is based on the kinetic equation treatment of Vlasov and involves an analytical solution for the electric and magnetic fields within the plasma allowing for a description of the attendant transmission, reflection and absorption coefficients. The ability to transmit through the magnetized plasma is due to the magnetic windows that are created within the plasma via the well-known whistler modes of propagation. The case of 2 GHz transmission through a re-entry plasma is considered. The coefficients are found to be highly sensitive to the prevailing electron density and will thus require a dynamic control mechanism to vary the magnetic field as the plasma evolves through the re-entry phase.
Document ID
20100000028
Acquisition Source
Glenn Research Center
Document Type
Technical Memorandum (TM)
Authors
Manning, Robert M. (NASA Glenn Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
August 25, 2013
Publication Date
December 1, 2009
Subject Category
Aircraft Communications And Navigation
Report/Patent Number
NASA/TM-2009-216096
E-17149
Funding Number(s)
WBS: WBS 599489.02.07.03.04.02.02
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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