A small spherical science satellite of radius is coated with a polymer that has an…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Thermal Properties of Matter · Thermal Properties of Matter
Problem
A small spherical science satellite of radius 0.75m is coated with a polymer that has an emissivity of 0.60 in the infrared. During a particular portion of its orbit the satellite’s average external surface temperature is measured to be 320K. Treat the satellite as emitting uniformly over its entire surface into the deep cold of space.
(a) Determine the surface area of the satellite.
(b) Calculate the total rate at which the satellite radiates thermal energy at 320K. Provide your answer in watts.
(c) Express the result from part (b) in kilowatts and discuss whether this energy loss is significant compared with the electrical power budget of a typical small satellite (order of 1–2kW).