Radiation Testing Of Thermal Control Mirrors

Thermal Control Mirrors and mirror substrates have been exposed to various simulated space radiation environments. One of the key parameters for this type of spacecraft component is the solar absorptance. Results are presented which compare the change in solar absorptance of four mirror types after exposure to electron, proton and UV irradiation. Comparisons between radiation induced degradation of substrates and the thermal control mirrors are made, an explanation for the smaller than expected degradation is provided.