Electrochromic emissivity modulator for spacecraft thermal management

A novel electrochromic device (ECD) working in mid- to long-wave infrared (IR) region is presented, comprising of a solid-state monolithic thin film system for adjusting heat rejection/receiving levels on attached surfaces. The system is an electrically controllable active emissivity modulator. EclipseVED (TM), variable-emissivity ECD, is designed for satellite and spacecraft thermal control, using an active ECD system for long-wave infrared (LWIR) modulation and a passive cold mirror for solar rejection. Emissivity modulation of the system is 0.8 for 7-12 mu m region while average solar rejection is 80% in the vis-NIR region. Device properties and initial space test results are also presented. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.