Experimental testing of heat flux sensors based on the inverse problem technique

Abstract

In final adjustment of thermally-loaded elements of space structures information on thermal loads (heat fluxes and surface temperatures) for the whole period of flight in the atmosphere is of primary importance. The level of temperature and the processes taking place on the surface of the heat shield do not always allow using conventional methods of measuring thermal loads. In this case determining thermal loads by the results of measuring the temperature at several points of elements of the heat shield structure is an alternative to direct measurements. The aim of this work is to develop and test sensors for measuring heat loading of thermal-protective coating of modern descent vehicles, as well as to test the developed methods of carrying out thermo-physical tests. Heat flux sensors for indestructible composite fibrous materials with a high degree of non-uniformity are described in the paper.