Spacecraft Thermal Materials Guide

The complete engineering guide to spacecraft thermal control materials including multilayer insulation (MLI), metallized films, Kapton® tapes, electrostatic dissipative films, and engineered laminates.

In this guide
  • Why spacecraft need thermal control
  • How MLI works
  • Kapton, Mylar and fluoropolymer films
  • Conductive & ESD materials
  • Selecting the right thermal material

What thermal materials are used in spacecraft?

Modern spacecraft rely on engineered thermal materials to maintain critical components within operating temperature limits. The most common materials include multilayer insulation (MLI), aluminized polyimide films, polyester films, fluoropolymer films, thermal tapes, electrostatic dissipative (ESD) films, optical coatings, and pressure-sensitive adhesive laminates.

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Why thermal control matters

Unlike Earth, space provides almost no atmosphere for convective cooling. Heat moves primarily through radiation and conduction. Engineers therefore use highly engineered thermal materials to reflect solar energy, retain heat during eclipse, and protect sensitive electronics from extreme temperature swings.

Multilayer Insulation (MLI)

MLI blankets are the gold standard for spacecraft thermal insulation. Multiple layers of low-emissivity metallized films separated by lightweight spacers dramatically reduce radiative heat transfer.

Material Purpose Typical Use
Aluminized Kapton Radiant heat reflection Outer MLI layers
Aluminized PET Lightweight reflector Internal blanket layers
ESD Films Static charge control External spacecraft surfaces
Thermal Tapes Assembly & repairs Harnesses & insulation

Dunmore aerospace materials

For decades, Dunmore has manufactured precision-engineered aerospace films used on NASA, JPL, commercial space, defense, and satellite programs. Capabilities include precision metallization, adhesive coating, laminating, converting, and clean manufacturing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What thermal materials are used in spacecraft?
MLI blankets, aluminized polyimide films, polyester films, thermal tapes, ESD films, and specialty coatings.
Why is MLI important?
It dramatically reduces radiative heat transfer while adding minimal weight.
Why is Kapton used?
Kapton maintains mechanical and electrical performance across extreme temperatures.
What is an ESD film?
A film engineered to dissipate electrical charge and minimize electrostatic discharge.
Why choose Dunmore?
Over 40 years supporting demanding aerospace and space applications with precision coated films.

Need help selecting spacecraft thermal materials?

Dunmore engineers work with aerospace manufacturers to develop custom thermal materials for satellites, launch vehicles, crewed spacecraft, scientific instruments, and deep-space missions.

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