Search Results

The thermo-optical properties of optical solar reflectors (OSRs) for passive thermal control of spacecraft can be modified by using optical thin films. Continuing development activity has reduced the solar absorptance to 0.033, enhanced the optical and environmental performance of the rear surface silver coating on standard OSRs and improved the conductivity of edge-coatings. This has resulted in a range of UV reflecting OSRs with improved ∝s/εn ratios and OSRs with enhanced electrostatic discharge resistance. The improvements in the silver coating is expected to result in reduced handling losses during the laying down process. The paper will provide an update on work being carried out and available results from qualification programmes.

The thermo-optical properties of optical solar reflectors (OSRs) can be modified by thin films. Development activity has produced a mirror with a solar absorptance of 0.04. The UV reflector has also been combined with a conductive layer for electrostatic discharge resistance, and functions over a range of solar flux incidence angles. This paper will provide an update on work that has been carried out.