Dimensionally Stable Satellite Structure with Embedded Thermal Features

A number of present and planned military satellite payloads simultaneously require significant waste heat mitigation, and high pointing accuracy. The challenge posed by these requirements stems from Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE)-induced changes in the size or geometry of the support structure under thermal load, which deflect the payload from its required orientation. To address this challenge, Infoscitex proposes to develop the Near-zero-CTE Structure with Peltier Assisted Conduction (NSPAC). NSPAC utilizes near-zero-CTE composite fibers to achieve a baseline composite panel structure with an extremely low cumulative CTE. Additional thermal control is provided by the embedment of Peltier-assisted conduction (PAC) nodes into the composite panel, which overcome low facesheet thermal conductivity in the thickness direction and provide increased panel isothermality. With this combination of passive and active thermal control features, NSPAC addresses the pointing and thermal management needs of present and future high-precision space systems. Bench-level prototyping will be performed in Phase I, to validate the design of a fully featured Phase II demonstrator panel. BENEFIT: The thermally stable panel developed in this program will be relevant to a number of space missions requiring optical and RF payloads. Markets will exist across a wide range of space activities including: military (strategic, tactical and responsive spacecraft); scientific space missions; and commercial satellites.