Neutral Environment and Residual Atmosphere

Question 1

How is atomic oxygen formed?

Answer 1

Atomic Oxygen is formed when UV from solar radiation is able to breakdown oxygen in the thermosphere.

Question 2

What are the effects of atomic oxygen on spacecraft?

Answer 2

Because atomic oxygen is highly reactive, it breaks down any surface coatings on the spacecraft, particularly where the oxygen flux is highest i.e. in the direction of motion of the spacecraft

Question 3

What is a challenge with orbital debris

Answer 3

very small debris 0.01 cm can cause pitting and surface erosion

larger debris can cause structural demage

debris smaller than 10 cm cannot be tracked from the ground

Question 4

What are the three effects of microgravity on an astronaught?

Answer 4

1. Decreased hydrostatic gradient - feeling of permanent head cold
2. altered vestibular function, feeling of motion sickness
3. reduced load on weight bearing tissues leading to skeletal and muscular weakness