PASSIVE THERMAL CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SPACE INSTRUMENTS MAKING – SCIENTIFIC BACKGROUND, QUALIFICATION, EXPLOITATION IN SPACE

Abstract

Passive thermal control systems (TCS) are one of obligatory system of any space mission, used as on large spacecraft and microsatellites Supporting of required temperature range for space instruments is supported by rational design of TCS with optimal choice of main thermal control components such as multilayer insulation, optical coatings, heat conductive elements, heat insulation supports, thermal conductive gaskets, radiating surfaces and other elements. New ideology in TCS design has come after appearance of new element – heat pipe(s) which is a super heat conductive thermal conductor with constant or variable thermal properties.