Mass-diameter function for the entire size regime of orbital debris

Over the past several years the interest in orbital debris has grown due to the hazard it poses to operating satellites. Models of the debris environment depend upon accurate assessments of the masses and sized of debris particles. Utilizing data from several hypervelocity impact tests and other sources, a mass-diameter relationship is determined for debris ranging in size from sub-millimeter particles to objects as large as derelict rocket bodies and inactive satellites. The accuracy of the mass-diameter relationship is examined and conclusions are reached.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.