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What are the most effective shielding materials and techniques for space systems?

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Space systems, such as satellites, rockets, and spacecraft, face various hazards in the harsh environment of outer space. One of the major threats is the impact of micrometeoroids and orbital debris (MMOD), which can damage the structure, functionality, and safety of the space systems. To protect the space systems from MMOD, different shielding materials and techniques are used, depending on the mission requirements, design constraints, and cost factors. In this article, you will learn about some of the most effective shielding materials and techniques for space systems, and how they work to prevent or mitigate the effects of MMOD.

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1 MMOD Characteristics

MMOD are small particles of natural or artificial origin that orbit the Earth at high speeds, ranging from a few centimeters to less than a millimeter in size. MMOD can collide with space systems, causing erosion, penetration, or fragmentation. The severity of the damage depends on the mass, velocity, shape, and angle of the MMOD, as well as the material and geometry of the target. MMOD can also generate secondary debris, which can increase the risk of further collisions. Therefore, it is important to understand the characteristics of MMOD and their distribution in different orbits, to design effective shielding solutions.

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Barbara Orsola

Senior Business Development Manager at TMC Italia - Technology and Engineering Service
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For space radiation shielding, low Z materials with a low density of neutrons and the highest density of electrons per atom are preferred. Hydrogen is the best material for shielding against space radiation as it has the highest density of electrons per nucleon and no neutrons. An effective radiation shielding material should be stable and withstand impacts that can be encountered in space. Hydrogen as a material is unstable. Therefore, the best alternative would be any hydrogenous materials such as structurally stable polymers. Many materials have been investigated in the past, such as aluminum, Kevlar, polyethylene, etc. The best radiation shielding material depends on the radiation environment.

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2 Shielding Materials

Shielding materials are the materials that form the outer layer of space systems, and are designed to absorb or deflect the energy of the MMOD impact. Factors such as weight, strength, thermal properties, radiation resistance, and cost can influence the choice of shielding materials. Common shielding materials include aluminum, a lightweight and strong metal that can withstand low-velocity impacts but can be penetrated or perforated by high-velocity MMOD; titanium, a metal with higher strength, hardness, and melting point than aluminum but is also heavier and more expensive; Kevlar, a synthetic fiber with high tensile strength, toughness, and heat resistance; and Nextel, a ceramic fiber with high thermal stability, chemical resistance, and low density. Both Kevlar and Nextel are often used as composite materials with other fibers or resins to form flexible or rigid shields. These materials can absorb or deflect the energy of the MMOD impact, reduce penetration depth and secondary debris, as well as erosion and fragmentation.

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3 Shielding Techniques

Shielding techniques are the methods used to arrange shielding materials in different configurations, to maximize their performance and efficiency. The choice of technique is dependent on the expected MMOD environment, the criticality of the protected components, and available space and weight. Three common shielding techniques are the Whipple Shield, Stuffed Whipple Shield, and Multi-Shock Shield. The Whipple Shield is effective for low-mass and low-velocity MMOD, and is suitable for non-pressurized components such as solar panels and antennas. The Stuffed Whipple Shield uses a filler material between the bumper and rear wall to absorb energy from fragments and reduce damage to the rear wall; it is effective for medium-mass and medium-velocity MMOD, suitable for pressurized components. Lastly, the Multi-Shock Shield uses multiple layers of shielding material with or without gaps or fillers to create multiple shock waves that degrade MMOD; it is effective for high-mass and high-velocity MMOD, suitable for critical components such as sensors and instruments.

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4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the most effective shielding materials and techniques for space systems?

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1 MMOD Characteristics

2 Shielding Materials

3 Shielding Techniques

4 Here’s what else to consider

Aerospace Engineering

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What are the most effective shielding materials and techniques for space systems?

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1 MMOD Characteristics

2 Shielding Materials

3 Shielding Techniques

4 Here’s what else to consider

Aerospace Engineering

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