Thermal Control for Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) Satellites

ABSTRACT:This effort will provide both a rapid, satellite thermal modeling tool and deployable radiator system specific to Responsive Space needs. The thermal analysis tool will allow users to make rapid decisions and apply appropriate hardware from a specific RS thermal toolbox. The deployable radiators, being a key component of this toolbox, will provide near isothermal radiator surfaces and a high thermal conductance deployment hinge. Coupled with a reliable and rugged deployment actuator and restraint mechanism, these deployable radiators will be capable of being rapidly assembled to a spacecraft.BENEFIT:The proposed effort will have a significant impact on the ORS Office and the RS community by providing thermal control subsystem innovations uniquely designed for robustness, reduced design and development times, and minimized cost. The rapid, satellite thermal modeling tool will allow users to make quick decisions and apply appropriate hardware from a specific RS thermal toolbox. The deployable radiator technology will provide near isothermal radiator surfaces and a high thermal conductance deployment hinge specifically tailored to ORS architectures.