Sunshade® Revolutionizes Spacecraft Protection with Decades-Long Durability

A durable thermal control material called Sunshade® has been developed by Deposition Sciences, Inc. (DSI) to handle extreme conditions in space. The product, now in use for over two decades, is designed to protect spacecraft and satellites from harsh environments.

Sunshade® comes in two forms: free film and tape. Both versions have undergone rigorous testing, including exposure to atomic oxygen (AO) and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The tests simulated eight years in low Earth orbit (LEO), proving the material's resilience.

Results showed almost no change in performance from the start to the end of its lifespan. The material can withstand an AO fluence exceeding 1 × 10²² (AO/cm²), confirming its long-term reliability. DSI, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, specialises in advanced coatings and materials, ensuring Sunshade® meets high industry standards.

Since 2021, the material has expanded beyond thermal protection for satellites. It now supports commercial space missions and deep space exploration, where extreme temperature control is critical.

Sunshade® remains a trusted solution for spacecraft thermal management. Its proven durability in atomic oxygen and UV exposure ensures dependable performance over extended missions. The material continues to play a key role in both near-Earth and deep space applications.