I Could the Sun burn an image sensor of a star tracker in space?

AI Thread Summary
Direct exposure of a star tracker image sensor to sunlight can indeed cause damage, potentially overheating or melting the sensor if light is concentrated through a large lens or mirror. High light intensity can also harm the sensor, with the extent of damage varying based on the sensor's specifications and the optical system used. It is advisable to design the star tracker to avoid direct sunlight exposure altogether, as even moonlight can be bright enough to cause damage. Consulting with an optical engineer or specialist is recommended for accurate guidance in sensor design. Proper precautions are essential to ensure the longevity and functionality of the star tracker in space.
DhruvSorathiya
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Hello,
I have a question. If a star tracker in space faces the sun directly then could it be possible that the sun completely burns the image sensor? To be specific we are a student satellite team (Student satellite program IIT Bombay) developing a star tracker and we don't have an exact idea about the situation if the star tracker faces the sun directly. Could anyone please share their thoughts and knowledge? It would be extremely helpful to us. Thank you.
 
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Typically yes, the sun will damage an image sensor. If you have a large lens or mirror focusing the light onto the sensor, then the concentrated sun's heat can overheat or even melt the sensor. Even if it is not damaged by the heat, the high light intensity can damage the sensor, but how much damage depends on the details of the sensor and optical system. It's probably best to design your system so that it never points at the sun. Even the moon can be bright enough to damage some sensors.
 
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Alright, Thank you.
 
@DhruvSorathiya if you are serious about designing satellite sensors, please consult an optical engineer or other such specialist. An ambiguous answer from an internet forum (no offense to phyzguy) is not what you want to base your design off of.
 
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