In-Orbit Thermal Performance of a Smart Radiation Device

The Smart Radiation Device (SRD) decreases the temperature variation by changing its emissivity depending on the temperature. The first generation of the SRD has been demonstrated on the MUSES-C ‘HAYABUSA’ spacecraft launched on May 9th 2003. This new thermal control device reduces the energy consumption of the on-board heater, and decreases the weight and the cost of the thermal control system. With the opportunity to validate the SRD in space, lightweight and low cost thermal control devices offer a possibility for flexible thermal control on interplanetary spacecraft.