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Flyboy
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I know that the heat shields on space capsules today are ablative, but what are they made of? 
Any help would be welcome.
Any help would be welcome.Ablative Heat Shields: Materials & Uses
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In summary, heat shields on space capsules today are made of a substance called Iconel 617 in the honeycomb TPS. Generally, a ceramic material called Nextel is used. The ablator itself is made of a blend of cork wood, binder, and tiny silica glass spheres. This technology was first used in the Viking Mars lander missions and has also been used in the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo space missions.
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NewScientist
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In the new X-33 the substance Iconel 617 is used in the honeycomb TPS (thermal protection system). Generally, Nextel (a ceramic) is used.
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Astronuc
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http://www.centennialofflight.gov/essay/Evolution_of_Technology/reentry/Tech19.htm
http://marsrovers.jpl.nasa.gov/mission/ spacecraft _edl_aeroshell.html
http://marsrovers.jpl.nasa.gov/mission/ spacecraft _edl_aeroshell.html
from NASA's Mar's Rovers site (second link).
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Flyboy
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Thanks guys. I am glad you could help.
1. What is an ablative heat shield?
An ablative heat shield is a type of protective material that is used to shield spacecraft and other objects from the intense heat and pressure experienced during atmospheric entry. It is designed to gradually burn away and dissipate the heat, rather than reflecting or absorbing it.
2. What materials are used to make ablative heat shields?
The most commonly used materials for ablative heat shields are carbon-based composites, such as phenolic resins, reinforced with materials like fiberglass or silica. Other materials that have been used include cork, balsa wood, and various ceramics.
3. How does an ablative heat shield work?
As the spacecraft enters the atmosphere, the heat shield is exposed to high temperatures and begins to char and burn away. This process releases gases, which create a boundary layer of cooler gas between the shield and the hot gases outside. This insulating layer helps to protect the spacecraft from the extreme heat.
4. What are the benefits of using an ablative heat shield?
One of the main benefits of using an ablative heat shield is its ability to effectively dissipate heat and protect the spacecraft from high temperatures. It also allows for a lighter weight design, which is crucial for space missions. Ablative heat shields are also relatively easy to manufacture and can be tailored to specific mission requirements.
5. What are some common uses for ablative heat shields?
Ablative heat shields are primarily used for spacecraft and space capsules, such as the Apollo and Soyuz capsules. They are also used for re-entry vehicles, such as the Space Shuttle, and for ballistic missiles. In addition, ablative heat shields have been used for other applications, such as protecting rocket engines and industrial equipment from high temperatures.
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