Electrodynamic Effects connected with the Motion of a Satellite of the Earth

Abstract

Dear Sir, During the International Geophysical Year a number of artificial satellites are planned to be launched into the earth's upper atmosphere. A satellite of the proposed type will move with a velocity of about 7.7 x 103 metres/sec. In the American project the motion is expected to take place in an orbit which has its nearest approach to the earth's surface a t an altitude around 500 km. The satellite will have the shape of a sphere, about 0.5 metres in diameter.