8 ms·
Assuming that we place an iron ball (ideal sphere-shaped and thermal conductivity) on the SSO (solar synchronous orbit), how hot can the object be? Given the s
by typ 8mo ago
Assuming that we place an iron ball (ideal sphere-shaped and thermal conductivity) on the SSO (solar synchronous orbit), how hot can the object be?
Given the solar constant 1361 W/m^2, you can calculate the temperature range based on the emissivity and absorptivity. With the right shape and “color”, the equilibrium temperature can be cooler than most people thought.
I suppose that a space data center powered 100% by solar is no different than this iron ball in principle.
- eldenring 8mo agoThe ideal shape would be a shaded, flat panel perpendicular to the sun right?
- typ 8mo agoThat should be better than a sphere. Though I imagine there could be some fancier 3D geometry designs. Even for a simple sphere, if we give it different surface roughnesses on the sun-facing side and the "night" side, it can have dramatically different emissivity.
- adastra22 8mo agoAbout 120 degC.