Design of free gap insulated power transmission systems for the space environment

Current data show that local pressures and other conditions surrounding a spacecraft can be such that the insulating capability of a free gap is dominated by phenomena associated with the left side of the Paschen minimum rather than vacuum breakdown. Coupled with the need for large power-to-weight ratios and long, reliable station operating times, a transmission system which enables the free gap to be used is being explored. One area of possible improvement is to examine methods of shielding a stressed region from external sources detrimental to insulation while simultaneously being able to maintain as low a pressure as possible by means of high pumping conductance shields. Various shielding designs are currently being investigated.<>