Tim McDonald, PhD’s Post

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President at Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc.

When spacecraft move through low-earth orbit, they are moving through a plasma. Because of the difference in mass of electrons and ions, there tends to be a buildup of ions in front of the moving craft and a "wake" behind it. This creates a difference in potential across the spacecraft that may need to be considered during spacecraft design phases. My colleague Mat Kolding simulated the spacecraft below making a plasma wake in its path. It demonstrates the plasma modeling capabilities of Ansys Charge Plus. This tool solves electromagnetic and fluid equations in a way that is easy-to-use and accurate. Mat created a step-by-step guide for this example if anyone is interested!

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Scott Granger

Transforming the National Security Enterprise

7mo

Love this use-case.... encourage my USSF colleagues to consider these effects when procuring both commercial and exquisite space capabilities.

Saman (Asghar) Mesbahi (Ph.D.)

Senior Medical Physicist, Barwon Health, Geelong, Vic, Australia

7mo

Love this

James Shaw

Simulation Engineer | Entrepreneur | Ansys Partner

7mo

Tim - this is so cool. I was just chatting with Sebastian the other day, you guys are doing the most amazing things right now. Super exciting stuff, crazy innovative workflows, capabilities, and speeds! Don't stop!!

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