Thermal Control Subsystem

Thermal control can be very important in large spacecraft, especially if the payload have specific requiremnts. In case of CubeSats active thermal control is rarely used. Furthermore becauause the surface of CubeSats are generally covered with solar panels only minimal (if any) passive thermal control is used. Nevertheless it is very important to keep in mind the differences of space environment and the operating temperature of parts. Systems can be tested using vacuum chamber.

Parts which might need thermal control

• Microchips: Integrated circuits (and other electrical components) produce heat during operation. In vacuum the only method of heat transfer is radiation therefore these conmponents can heat up more than in earth environment.
• Electric motors: motros generate heat during operation, which can damage the motor. Brushed motors are more effected than brushless ones. To avoid damage operate motors at 20-30% of maximum power at most.

Passive thermal control

While active temperature control is generally too large, heavy and complicated for CubeSats some passive control can be used to control temperature of components:

• Paint
• Heat pipes