Hybrid TPS: A Novel Hybrid Thermal Protection System for Atmospheric Entry Space Probes Based on SHS-Produced MgO/Spinel Refractories

摘要

A novel Hybrid Thermal Protection System (Hybrid TPS) for space probes entering planetary atmospheres at very high velocities has been designed and tested. The system mainly consists of a coarsely porous MgO/spinel refractory made by SHS and filled with a reinforced phenolic material creating a hybrid system. The two main constituents act synergistically protecting each other from the extreme heating developed during atmospheric entry and reduce the recession and irregularity at the front surface. The results of the investigation have shown that the hybrid system offers satisfactory protection at heat fluxes of more than 2000 kW/m~2 and total heat loads of more than 200 MJ/m~2 and is thus a promising material for high-speed atmospheric entry usages.