Project Title:

Development and Implementation of a Lightning Assessment Methodology for NASA Application

13.03-0070A
901221
Development and Implementation of a Lightning Assessment Methodology for NASA Application

Abstract:

The development, validation and software implementation of a formalized lightning
assessment methodology is proposed for NASA ground systems. The methodology will
be implemented in software as a smart system and will be tailored to NASA systems
such as launch vehicles before launch, stored ordnance and explosives, satellites
in storage or test, and computer systems. A novel derivative of the three dimensional,
finite difference solution method of Maxwell's equation which we call VECTOR 3DFD
will be used to calculate fields (currents) near (on) physical structures. Several
new concepts for low level testing of structures are also proposed.
No complete, integrated, assessment methodology exists for lightning protection of
ground systems. The assessment methodology proposed here would become an industry
standard for facility protection of specialized, highly susceptible systems. It could
be used for example by those government agencies (state government agencies, EPA,
NRC) responsible for controlling pubic risk from hazardous industries (explosives
manufacturing, refining of fuels, manufacturing processes with potential human risk
such as fertilizer production, nuclear power plants).
lightning, assessment, coupling, facilities