Ballistic limit equations for spacecraft shielding

This paper provides equations describing the ballistic performance capability of meteoroid/orbital debris (M/OD) shield systems employed on the International Space Station (ISS). Hypervelocity impact (HVI) tests and analysis were used in developing the semi-empirical ballistic limit equations (BLE). A description of each type of shield system, HVI tests and analysis performed to assess shield performance, and ballistic limit equations that define the protection capability of the shield are given. Methods to improve the performance of spacecraft shielding are also discussed.