The definition of the low earth orbital environment and its effect on thermal control materialsThe LEO environment and its effects on thermal-control materials (TCMs) being evaluated for use in long-term-mission space structures such as the Space Station are characterized, summarizing the results of recent space and laboratory experiments. Factors examined include atomic oxygen (a serious problem out to 600-700 km), ionizing radiation, solar UV radiation, solid particles (manmade debris and micrometeoroids, a significant hazard out to about 1000 km), and synergistic effects. Numerical data on the expected intensity of these effects for the different Space Station components, the resistance of specific TCMs to the effects, and the effectiveness of protective coatings are compiled in extensive tables and illustrated with diagrams, graphs, and micrographs.
Document ID
19870055829
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Durcanin, J. T. (NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Chalmers, D. R. (RCA Aerospace and Defense, RCA Astro-Space Div., Princeton NJ, United States)
Visentine, J. T. (NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)