2006-11-17 08:37:28 · 3 answers · asked by charlie2900 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
WASHINGTON -- While astronomers predict only a minimal blast of dust debris from comet Tempel-Tuttle for the Leonid meteor shower this week, some spacecraft controllers are on standby alert.
For the past two years, measures have been taken to protect Earth-circling satellites from the Leonids. High-velocity particles can wreak havoc with spacecraft, damaging solar panels, as well as delicate sensors.
Hits of speeding comet debris can also spark electrical effects in a satellite, possibly causing control thrusters to accidentally fire.
[uplink]
The potential severity of the Leonid shower in 1998 and 1999 spurred a number of precautionary action items for satellite ground controllers.
Selected satellites and components were powered down. "A team" personnel took over consoles during the showers. And a number of spacecraft solar panels were adjusted to minimize exposure to incoming storm debris
2006-11-17 08:47:32 · answer #1 · answered by Michael I 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Highly doubtful. Meteors are about the size of dust. The earth goes through multiple meteor showers per year and I haven't heard of any satellite failures.
2006-11-17 16:40:06 · answer #2 · answered by Roman Soldier 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. I believe some satellite operators do take precautions during meteor showers. However, space is big and the danger, while not zero, is quite small.
2006-11-17 16:45:08 · answer #3 · answered by campbelp2002 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋