Abstract
Astronauts and spacecraft have had frequent run-ins with micrometeorites and other orbital debris. Moreover, hypervelocity impacts by micrometeoroids and orbital debris are significant hazards for spacecraft and satellites. Thermal protection and hypervelocity impact protection can be combined in a multi-layer insulation blanket. Materials like Kevlar, Twaron, and other aramid materials are used as fabric layers in the space shields. Other potential materials are Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) or Dyneema and ceramic-based structures can be used as well. These materials, when used in layers can provide a good amount of protection from micrometeorites and space/orbital debris. This review paper focuses on impact testing and material characteristics done in previous studies regarding materials like Kevlar, Dyneema, and Ceramic materials. MMOD shielding capability is influenced by both, configuration, and material selection. Composites and materials with a high strength-to-weight ratio are used in the shields. Several layers like disrupt layer, standoff layer, and stopper layer are used to shield the spacecraft depending on the properties of the material used. The risk and probability of penetration due to hypervelocity impacts remain a big threat to space missions. The review also discusses experiments done on current systems related to MMOD shielding.
