Thermal Control for Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) Satellites

The objective is to provide a robust thermal control subsystem (TCS) design focused on overcoming the unique challenges of Responsive Space (RS). The proposed TCS design will be based on state-of-the-art technologies including: variable emissivity devices, variable heat transfer layers, and advanced insulating materials to name a few. Technologies such as these have recently been the subject of significant DoD investment as a response to the RS charge. However, the literature has shown that little work has been done to evaluate how they might be integrated in a combined system. This work will identify enabling TCS technologies, evaluate their current performance, and provide a synthesized TCS specifically designed to overcome RS challenges. The overall performance and capabilities of the resulting TCS design will be fully evaluated and described. BENEFIT: This research and development effort provides a direct response to the unique thermal challenges of Responsive Space. Specifically, a modular and reconfigurable thermal control subsystem design will be developed and evaluated based on state-of-the-art technologies. This unique approach has the potential to significantly reduce design, development, and integration costs.