Are induced currents of any concern in satellite missions?

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SUMMARY

Induced currents in satellites, caused by their movement through Earth's magnetic field, are generally not a significant concern for engineers. While these currents can create an electric dipole moment, which is perpendicular to the satellite's movement and the external magnetic field, their effects are typically weak and slowly changing. The discussion highlights that while solar flares (CMEs) pose a greater threat, induced currents are not detrimental to satellite functionality. Practical applications of these induced currents include magnetic stabilization techniques in CubeSats and the use of electrodynamic tethers.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of satellite dynamics and orbital mechanics
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic theory, particularly induced currents
  • Knowledge of solar phenomena, specifically coronal mass ejections (CMEs)
  • Experience with CubeSat design and magnetic stabilization techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "CubeSat magnetic stabilization techniques"
  • Explore "Electrodynamic tether applications in space missions"
  • Study the effects of "coronal mass ejections on satellite operations"
  • Investigate "induced electric dipole moments in satellite design"
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, satellite mission planners, and researchers focused on satellite design and electromagnetic effects in space environments will benefit from this discussion.

Yoni
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TL;DR
Are induced currents of any concern in a satellites mission?
A satellite in an orbit around Earth can be subjected to a changing magnetic field (due to eccentricity or angle of orbit or both) which can induce currents on its envelope.
Are these currents negligible or are they of any concern to engineers?

Also, as I understand it, the satellites high speed movement inside Earth's magnetic field would induce an electric dipole moment in the satellite (perpendicular to it's movement and external magnetic field). How would this dipole affect the satellite? Can it protect the circuits from solar flares? What if two vessels in contact detach, can they remain charged?
 
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Thanks.
But, putting CME's aside, the induced currents (as explained above) are they of any concern for a functioning satellite?
 
Yoni said:
But, putting CME's aside, the induced currents (as explained above) are they of any concern for a functioning satellite?
Usually that's not current, but only an electric field. It is (usually) weak and only slowly changing. It is not really a 'concern', not around Earth anyway.
However. There are actual uses:
- google up 'cubesat magnetic stabilization'
- google up 'Electrodynamic tether'
 
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