a. A calculation of the maximum expected voltage between the two ends of the tether shall be made.
NOTE 1 This maximum expected voltage depends on orbit altitude and inclination.
NOTE 2 Nominal voltages for a conductive tether system can be ascertained by simulation of orbital velocity with an appropriate magnetic field model. It is important to note, however, that in addition to this nominal voltage, significant voltages can be generated in the tether by dynamic changes in the Earth’s magnetic field.
b. A calculation of the current flowing through the tether shall be made.
NOTE Current collection depends on the area of the collector and the voltage. Unless the collector is a simple shape e.g. spherical, it is likely that geometrical model of the current collection are used to calculate the total current collected. Generally, tethers are in low Earth orbit where space-charge limited current collection applies.
c. Insulator continuity shall be verified by a cable spark test in which the cable is drawn through a high voltage electrode which brushes the outside of the cable to detect imperfections in the insulator.
d. Circuit analysis shall be performed to verify that the current passing through the deployment mechanism is within the level agreed with the customer.