Methodology of Computer Simulation of Lightning Electromagnetic Phenomena Action on the Elements of the Spaceport

Abstract

Materials presented in the paper are part of the work to create a universal method for modeling and optimizing lightning protection systems for spaceport. In this regard, special attention is paid to the analysis of existing techniques for calculating zones of a probable lightning strike and their compliance with standards. Specificity of the task and features of the lightning protection system made it possible to generalize this data and propose an optimal technique for calculating such zones. At the same time, the possibilities of numerical modeling of physical processes provided by the specialized software modules were used to the fullest extent possible. At the second stage of the work, the degree of destabilizing effect of a direct lightning strike in the body of a launch vehicle was assessed, as well as the effect of an electromagnetic field caused by a lightning strike into the elements of the lightning protection system of the spaceport. Taking into account the specific nature of the problem and the features of the lightning protection system, a new method for calculating the destabilizing effect of a lightning strike is proposed. Its difference from alternative methods is to more accurately simulate the dynamics of current propagation and the fields it induces in conductive structures when exposed to a lightning pulse of various shapes. The results of modeling and calculation presented in the presentation should be considered as an illustration of the application of the developed methodology.