Numerous experimental investigations have been conducted over the past two years in an attempt to increase understanding of the arcing characteristics associated with anodized aluminum plates immersed in a plasma environment. The International Space Station (ISS), as well as the Extra-vehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) worn by ISS crew-members, utilize anodized aluminum components in many key areas. Photo-voltaic array driven charging of these components can cause arcs to be initiated when these components are exposed to the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) plasma environment. Arc generation can lead not only to damage of the anodized surface and generation of electromagnetic interference, but also to an electrical shock hazard for an astronaut in an EMU. Descriptions of multiple arc tests that apply to the ISS and EMU will be provided. Results of each test will be shown in a compiled form, due to the large number of arc events generated during a typical test campaign. Where appropriate, current and voltage waveforms associated with a single arc event will be shown in detail.
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