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 re-analyzed 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.