Skip to main content
Try the DemoSign InSign Up
← Back to Glossary
Definition

Atomic Oxygen

AO

Highly reactive oxygen atoms present in the upper atmosphere that erode polymer surfaces on LEO spacecraft. Drives material selection for thermal blankets and solar array substrates.

Related terms

Attitude Control SystemACS

The subsystem responsible for maintaining and changing the orientation of a spacecraft. Includes sensors (star trackers,...

Apogee

The point in an orbit farthest from the central body. For Earth orbits, the highest altitude above Earth's surface....

Argument of Periapsis

The angle from the ascending node to the periapsis of the orbit, measured in the orbital plane in the direction of motio...

Single Event UpsetSEU

A bit flip in a memory cell or register caused by a single ionizing particle striking sensitive circuit nodes. Mitigated...

See this concept in action

SMAD Portal implements mission engineering concepts as interactive tools.

Start Your PilotSee Features