Thermal louvers similar to those provided for
NASA’s Juno spacecraft.
Power on... and NASA's Juno spacecraft's power turned on beginning with the scientific instruments for data collection. NASA’s Juno spacecraft built by Lockheed Martin is the first solar-powered spacecraft designed to operate at such a great distance from the sun began to stabilize in orbit. Because of its distance from the sun SNC had to ensure that their electronic-free four thermal devices regulated the temperature of the spacecraft without pulling power or needing commands from the spacecraft—ideal for long-term interplanetary missions with wide-ranging orbits, orientations and payload operations.
Just like louvers in Earthly homes' windows these four thermal louvers open and close to regulate the temperature of the spacecraft without compromising the power from the spacecraft. This is an ideal solution for long-term interplanetary missions with wide-ranging orbits, orientations and payload operations.
A recap of the July 4 excitement as NASA's Juno spacecraft entered orbit around Jupiter. After an almost five-year journey to the solar system's largest planet, Juno successfully entered Jupiter's orbit during a 35-minute engine burn.
Mark N. Sirangelo, corporate vice president of SNC’s Space Systems business area stated, “SNC would like to congratulate NASA and the entire Juno team on once again successfully pushing the boundaries of science and technology. Over the next several months, scientists will gain not only a better understanding of the largest planet in our solar system, but the origins of our solar system itself. Our thermal louver technology is the result of NASA’s Technology Transfer Program, proof that strong government-commercial relationships are mutually beneficial.”
SNC was chosen by Lockheed Martin in 2009 to support Juno and continues to provide thermal systems for missions today. SNC has 25+ years of space heritage and has supported more than 70 NASA missions throughout the solar system.