Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI) blankets are sometimes considered for space debris shielding applications. The blankets, composed of several spaced Kapton and Mylar layers, are thought to offer some penetration resistance to hypervelocity meteoroids and orbital debris. Empirical data and the physics of hypervelocity impacts suggest that the shield's mass is a critical parameter in penetration resistance. Hypervelocity impact analyses have been performed with hydrocode computational models on MLI blankets and aluminum plates. The calculations agree well with the results of impact tests on MLI blankets and aluminum plates. The results indicate that MLI blankets can provide, in certain cases, some shielding for short duration missions and for non-critical components. MLI blankets provide much less penetration protection than equal thickness metallic plates and should not be considered as an alternative to properly designed hypervelocity impact shielding. The hydrocode models developed for this study are useful for assessing the effectiveness of various barrier materials as hypervelocity impact shields.
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