I Heating gasses in space -- How could we make a greenhouse in space?

AI Thread Summary
Greenhouses could theoretically function in space or on other planets by trapping heat, despite the absence of an atmosphere. The concept involves using materials that allow short-wave radiation in while preventing long-wave radiation from escaping. While gases like CO2 might be necessary for heat retention, calculating the actual heat generated and the required gas volume poses challenges. The discussion highlights the potential for using such structures not just for biological purposes but also for warming equipment or substances in a vacuum. Overall, the idea reflects a broader consideration of thermal management in extraterrestrial environments.
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How could we make a greenhouse in space. Thought experiment!
I was thinking the other day about green houses and how they would act in space or on another planet without an atmosphere. I know that green houses work on Earth by stopping convection but could they theoretically trap heat in a non atmospheric environment? I am imagining a material that allows short wave radiation in and traps long wave from escaping. My assumption is that a gas would have to be used such as CO2 but how could I calculate actual heat generated and how much gas is required?
 
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Greenhouses also block some radiation - longer wavelength, and the emitted radiation is longer than the avsorbed. But what's the point of a greenhouse in a vacuum?
 
I suppose we are being biocentric. There could be valid reasons for wanting to passively warm a volume that have nothing to do with living critters.
 
DaveC426913 said:
I suppose we are being biocentric. There could be valid reasons for wanting to passively warm a volume that have nothing to do with living critters.
Yes Dave. My initial thought was a passively warm volume in a simple structure on another planetary body for keeping equipment warm or heating substances.
 
Why use a gas? Why not an actual greenhouse?
 
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Well, I guess the Earth is a sort of greenhouse in the vacuum of space... 🙃
 
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