Scale model Space Shuttle EMI test: HV-VHF electromagnetic field strength measurements

The authors introduce the Waves in Space Plasmas (WISP) project and document the results of an electromagnetic-interference (EMI) test with the Dipole Antenna Subsystem (DASS) portion of the project. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is concerned that the electromagnetic fields radiated by the dipole antenna may be large enough to interfere with, or prevent, the operation of other mission equipment on the Shuttle. This test uses a one-tenth scale model of the Orbiter, DASS, and payloads to measure the electromagnetic field levels in the Orbiter cargo bay. These field strength values are compared to values obtained from computer models. The results seem to validate the theory that, for the outdoor EMI test, an image of the half Orbiter model is indeed formed beneath the model itself because of the presence of the ground plane