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The "invisible problems" actually occurring in the space environment
The "Invisible Problem" Actually Occurring in Space Environments
Space is a vacuum with zero gravity and intense radiation--an environment completely different from Earth. In such extreme conditions, "trace volatile components (outgas)" emitted from materials and components can significantly impact the performance of optical instruments and observation devices. Particularly problematic is "molecular contamination." Fine particles released from materials can adhere to optical surfaces inside satellites, potentially leading to malfunctions such as reduced observation accuracy and sensitivity.
When the outside is dirty by outgasses emitted from spacecraft such as earth observation satellites and astronomical observation satellites...
- Optical Equipment (Telescope Lenses, Mirrors, etc.)
- Data accuracy and image quality deteriorate.
- Thermal Control Surface
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The reflectivity decreases.
The temperature inside the spacecraft rises. - Solar Cell
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The amount of incident light is reduced.
The amount of power generation decreases.
Satellite Outgas Pollution
Contamination example of optical observation image quality deterioration
（Photographs of cassini, a saturn probe*）
＊V. R. Haemmerle and J. H. Gerhard, "Cassini Camera Contamination Anomaly: Experiences and Lessons Learned," AIAA paper, AIAA-2006-5834 (2006).
The Importance of Material Selection
In recent years, space equipment components have demanded weight reduction and cost reduction, leading to increased use of adhesives, resin-based materials, and composite materials. However, how these materials react under space conditions remains a challenge.
- How will materials behave in space environments?
- What gases will be released and in what quantities?
From these perspectives, the importance of outgas evaluation at the material level is being reaffirmed.
How to Tackle This Challenge ― Toward Outgas Evaluation Using QCM
Photo Courtesy of Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
Through discussions and shared needs with JAXA, we are working to implement outgas evaluation technology using QCM.
- Real-time, quantitative mass measurement of volatile components released from materials
- Evaluation under vacuum and temperature control enables adhesion assessment equivalent to CVCM
- Testing possible using profiles compliant with ASTM E1559/E2900
Furthermore, this evaluation technology is actually being used in material evaluation experiments at JAXA. The reliability and reproducibility of our QCM sensors have been verified through real-world operation in spacecraft development environments.
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For consultations regarding material evaluation and measurement methods, or for any technical questions, please feel free to contact us.
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