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Radiative Cooling in Outer Space: Fundamentals, Advances in Materials and Applications, and Perspectives
Yurong Fan1, Hao Chen2, Xiaochuan Liu1
1School of Aeronautic Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|August 19, 2025
Summary
This review explores radiative cooling (RC) materials for spacecraft thermal control. It details space environmental effects on RC materials and proposes strategies for enhanced performance and reliability in space missions.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Aerospace Engineering
- Thermodynamics
Background:
- Effective thermal control is crucial for spacecraft safety in outer space.
- Radiative cooling (RC) offers passive, energy-efficient thermal management by emitting infrared radiation.
- Existing reviews lack focus on space-specific RC material performance and adaptability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review radiative cooling materials for space applications.
- To differentiate terrestrial and space-based RC requirements.
- To address challenges and future directions for space-based RC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on space environmental effects on RC materials.
- Analysis of protection strategies against space factors.
- Discussion of challenges and future research.
Main Results:
- Identified key differences between terrestrial and space RC requirements.
- Detailed the impact of space environment (temperature, dust, VUV, AO) on RC materials.
- Outlined protection strategies for enhanced material durability.
Conclusions:
- Advanced RC materials are vital for next-generation spacecraft thermal control.
- Addressing space environmental challenges is key to material development.
- This review provides insights for improving energy efficiency and mission reliability.
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