Particle-in-cell simulation: generation of soliton via debris-plasma interaction

Debris in space poses an existential threat to space-based commercial and na- tional security infrastructure. Electrically charged debris in space may excited solitons as the debris travels through the plasma environment [1, 2]. These solitons propagate upstream of the debris and could provide a means of de- bris detection and early warning to spacecraft. Laboratory experiments show promising signs of soliton excitation. Here, we model the experimental con- ditions with particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations. We carry out two- and three- dimensional numerical studies to examine soliton excitation dependence on the relative speed between the plasma and debris, soliton excitation dependence on the total charge on the debris, and the electrostatic or electromagnetic nature of the precursor solitons.