- #1
japam
- 39
- 0
i have always wondered how do the sensors meters carried in spacecraft s work in space, with all that harnessing radiation out there, how is that the cosmic rays, ultraviolet, x rays etc... don't fry it out
Sensors in space measure various physical quantities such as temperature, pressure, radiation, and magnetic fields. They do this by using specialized instruments such as spectrometers, radiometers, and magnetometers. These instruments detect and convert the physical quantities into electrical signals that can be transmitted back to Earth for analysis.
There are many types of sensors used in space, including optical sensors, thermal sensors, chemical sensors, and mechanical sensors. Each type of sensor is designed to measure a specific physical quantity and has its own unique set of capabilities and limitations.
Sensors in space are calibrated using a variety of methods, including ground-based testing, on-orbit testing, and self-calibration. Ground-based testing involves simulating space conditions on Earth and comparing the sensor's measurements with known standards. On-orbit testing involves comparing the sensor's measurements with those of other sensors on the same spacecraft. Self-calibration involves using the sensor's own internal reference signals to adjust and refine its measurements.
Sensors in space face many challenges, including extreme temperatures, radiation, and debris. These conditions can cause sensor malfunctions or damage, leading to inaccurate measurements. To overcome these challenges, sensors must be designed and tested to withstand the harsh conditions of space.
Sensors play a crucial role in our understanding of the cosmos by providing us with data and measurements that are crucial to our knowledge of the universe. They help us study and analyze celestial objects, measure the physical properties of space, and monitor changes and events in the cosmos. Without sensors, our understanding of the cosmos would be limited and incomplete.