New methodology to model the atmospheric re-entry of a satellite with DEBRISK v3

In order to evaluate the possible casualty area caused by the atmospheric re-entry of a vehicle, CNES develops its own certification tool named DEBRISK. For more than 7 years, an important work has been carried out in the frame of DEBRISK v3 with the aim of reducing as much as possible the uncertainties on all the models influencing the survivability of debris.

Given the significant advances in terms of modelling and observations from ground experiments, the methodologies and recommendations are evolving and improving. Several recommendations are discussed, specifically related to how to model a satellite and problematic equipment from a survivability point of view. Representative satellite test cases are presented, showing the evolution of the debris survivability with DEBRISK V3.