RF-transparent spacecraft thermal control barrier

摘要

An RF-transparent blanket provides thermal protection against solar and laser radiation. The blanket includes an outer layer of a transparent Kapton dielectric sheet with an outer surface coated with electrically conductive transparent indium-tin oxide to aid in suppressing electrostatic discharge. A second layer includes a transparent Kapton dielectric sheet with a coating of white silicone paint on the surface facing the first sheet. The outermost Kapton sheet protects the paint from long-term damage due to charged particle fluence and ultraviolet radiation. Further sheets of uncoated transparent Kapton, which may be embossed, are interposed between the second layer and a surface upon which an antenna is mounted to provide thermal insulation.