Evaluation of the thermal control system of the Petite Amateur Navy Satellite (PANSAT)

Abstract

A thermal management system is required on satellites to maintain spacecraft components within prescribed temperature limits. This thesis describes the development of an analytical thermal model for the PANSAT satellite. The analytical model is used to characterize the thermal environment and temperature fluctuations or board the PANSAT spacecraft while operational in the space environment. The model is developed anc interrogated in the Integrated Thermal Analysis System (ITAS) environment. In addition to documenting thc model, and the assumptions and methodology used in developing the model, the thesis will attempt to define ar appropriate test philosophy for subsequent environmental testing of the PANS AT spacecraft. The thesis text will serve as the primary documentation for the thermal model so that it can be fully utilized to support required environmental testing.