Passive thermal control with passive sun shield for low-temperature sensors

Matthew J. Schor

doi:10.1117/12.138028

10 August 1992 Passive thermal control with passive sun shield for low temperature sensors

Matthew J. Schor

Proceedings Volume 1691, Small Satellite Technologies and Applications II; (1992) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.138028
Event: Aerospace Sensing, 1992, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

Sensing missions using small satellites impose thermal and power requirements upon the satellite which are difficult to meet due to the limited power available. Sensors such as short wavelength infrared detectors and gamma ray spectrometers require operating temperatures on the order of 100 to 200 Kelvin. A conventional thermal control system would use an active cooler or an active sun shade to meet the sensor temperature requirement. This solution requires significant power, increases the weight of the satellite, and reduces the reliability since active components are required. A completely passive design employing a radiator protected by a set of self actuating sun shade panels can alleviate the need for active cooling of the sensor, while reducing the weight of the satellite. A unique feature of this design is that it allows the radiator to continue to function while shading the radiator from the sun for low incident sun angles. In addition, this design can completely shield the sensor from direct overhead sunlight during non-operating modes. This protection is important in germanium crystal gamma ray spectrometers since cosmic rays can damage the crystal if the temperature rises above 110 Kelvin.

Citation Download Citation

Matthew J. Schor "Passive thermal control with passive sun shield for low temperature sensors", Proc. SPIE 1691, Small Satellite Technologies and Applications II, (10 August 1992); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.138028

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available