Heat Shields
Heat shields are protective materials that are used to protect spacecraft and their occupants from the extreme heat generated during atmospheric re-entry. During re-entry, the spacecraft is traveling at high speeds and encounters friction with the Earth's atmosphere, which generates heat that can reach temperatures of up to 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat shields are designed to absorb and dissipate this heat, preventing it from damaging the spacecraft and its occupants. They are typically made of materials such as ceramic tiles, ablative materials, or composite materials, and are designed to withstand the extreme temperatures and pressures of re-entry. Heat shields are a critical component of spacecraft design, as they ensure the safety of the crew and the success of the mission.
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