Shape Distribution of Fragments from Microsatellite Impact Tests

Fragment shape is an important factor for conducting reliable orbital debris damage assessments for critical space assets. This paper provides some information on shape distribution of fragments observed from microsatellite impact tests completed as part of an ongoing collaboration between Kyushu University and the NASA Orbital Debris Program Office. Two distinct groups can be observed in the shape distribution provided. One includes needle-like objects, while another includes plate-like objects. Therefore, this paper suggests modeling the shape distribution as two different groups, needles and plates.