Experimental Calibration of a Vector Electric Field Meter Measurement System on an Aircraft.

Although numerous aircraft have been instrumented with field mills, there have been few instances of reports of the absolute calibration of any of the three field components or self charge. Furthermore, a full vector calibration of all components has never been satisfactorily reported. This report outlines the various reasons why a full vector calibration is difficult to obtain and suggests ways of avoiding the pitfalls. A full vector calibration is presented for a CV-580 turboprop aircraft. Errors are estimated for all components and various improvements are suggested. Keywords include Electrostatic field, Aircraft, Calibration, Field mills.