Formation of Particles during Surface Destruction of Space Bodies Moving in the Atmosphere

Abstract

When passing through the Earth’s atmosphere, cosmic bodies are subjected to significant loads due to the impact of high-speed gas flow on their surface. Under the influence of aerodynamic forces and strong heat flows, these bodies are destroyed. The mechanisms of destruction depend on their composition, structure, speed, size and strength. Artificial space bodies move in the atmosphere, generally maintaining their orientation in space, and reach the surface, maintaining integrity due to their high strength. As a result of surface destruction of the frontal part of these bodies, destruction products enter the plasma layer surrounding them when moving in the atmosphere. The design features of the Soyuz descent vehicle made it possible to study the dust component of the plasma layer from the deposits deposited on the porthole. Data on particles detected on the surface of the spacecraft are analyzed, and the results of a statistical analysis of the resulting particle size distribution are presented. It is shown that the distribution curve is well described by a power law.