Temperature due to radiation in lower Thermosphere

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the temperature exposure of a pico-satellite operating in the lower thermosphere, specifically between 90 km and 320 km altitudes. Key insights include the application of the Stefan–Boltzmann law to calculate incoming solar radiation, which is approximately 1350 W/m² at Earth's location. The importance of understanding the satellite's absorption and reflection properties is emphasized, as these factors influence the satellite's thermal response to solar radiation. Additionally, the use of reflective materials, such as gold foil, is noted as a common practice to mitigate heat absorption.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Stefan–Boltzmann law
  • Knowledge of thermal properties of materials
  • Familiarity with satellite design principles
  • Basic concepts of radiation heat transfer
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Stefan–Boltzmann law and its applications in thermal analysis
  • Explore thermal management techniques for satellites, including reflective materials
  • Investigate the thermal properties of materials used in satellite construction
  • Learn about simulation tools for modeling thermal environments in space
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, satellite designers, and researchers focused on thermal management in space applications will benefit from this discussion.

bradyle
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Hi I'm only new to the forum but was wondering if any of you could help me with a problem I'm having.

I'm currently designing a pico-satellite that will orbit in the lower thermosphere between 320Km and 90Km and am trying to run simulations on my designs.
I've run into a brick wall when trying to find the temperature the satellite will be exposed too. I know due to the near vacuum like qualities of the thermosphere the satellite will only be heated with radiation by the sun and by the Earth to a lesser degree. But I can't find any information on the actual temperatures due to radiation in this area. If anyone could give me any help on this it would be greatly appreciated


Lorraine
 
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Well this is not as easy as you want, but as a rule of thumb, you may check the Stefan–Boltzmann law.
 
Exactly, with the S-B law you can calculate for your sat the incoming heat, which is approximately 1350 W/m^2 in space, at the location of earth. You then need to know the absorption and reflection properties of your sat. You can use this to calculate how much your sat heats up in the period that it is exposed to solar radiation. This is the reason that these big sats have gold foil all over them - to reflect the solar heat back into space.
 

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