Astronomy & Space Sciences

Components of the spacecrafts experiences heat from mainly two sources; (i) solar radiation, and (ii) internal sources. One way to achieve thermal control is through the usage of low absorptance and high emissivity coatings so as to combat the effect of solar heating. This can be realized using reflective white coating. On the other hand the combination of high emittance and high absorptance with black or greyish-black appearance is vital for some scientific and astronomical payloads especially for the interior applications of spacecraft to reduce light scattering. In this case, alumina-titania, titania or chromia coating can serve the purpose. These coatings possess a naturally rough surface and porous interior. Both of these features can be useful in trapping radiation. The microstructural features, adhesion strength and phases of these coatings are depended on plasma spraying process parameters. This work involves deposition of the above coatings using appropriate process parameters. The final goal is to produce reflective and absorbent coatings with adequate adhesion strength for thermal control applications in spacecraft.