Modifying the NASA standard breakup model to be applied to low-velocity collision

Kyushu University has performed some low-velocity impact experiments at a low-velocity range less than 300 m/s to understand the dispersion properties of fragments newly created by a low-velocity collision possible in geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO). The data from those impact experiments are utilized to establish a mathematical prediction model to be used in debris generation and propagation codes. The author re-analyzed the experimental data based on the method used in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) standard breakup model and compared the reanalyzed results with the NASA standard breakup model. The comparison indicates that the NASA standard breakup model can be applied to low-velocity collision with some simple modifications. Currently, we are performing additional impact experiments using a two-stage light gas gun at Kyushu Institute of Technology (KIT) to verify the modifications and exam their applicability at a slightly higher velocity range up to 800 m/s, that is the maximum relative velocity between GEO objects. In this paper we will present the results from our additional low-velocity impact experiments performed under collaboration between Kyushu University and KIT.