Description:

• Provides variable atmosphere composition and pressure with high voltage direct current source and sensitive current meter.

Features:

• Pressures from 10-4 to 102-torr.
• Potentials up to 20 kV.
• Current sensitivity of 10-8  Amp.
• Dual-gas supply used for controlled flow of test gases into bell jar.
  

Research Projects:

• Studies of Paschen breakdown across shadow shields for high power electric propulsion.

Potential Uses:

• Studies of Paschen breakdown under Martian atmospheric conditions.
• Studying durability of carbon-carbon composite radiators used at elevated temperatures on Martian surface.
• Gas composition reconfiguration for other environmental testing.
• Microbalance added to chamber for thermogravimetric studies in differing atmospheres.
• Mass spectrometer addition for studying component outgassing.
  
  
  

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Curator:  Sandra.A.Zolo@nasa.gov and NASA Official Responsible For Content:  Sharon.K.Miller@grc.nasa.gov