Have you ever wondered why satellites are wrapped in gold foil? But it is not gold foil. Then what it is made of? Let's have a look.
When satellite orbit around the Earth's orbit the temperature may vary from -200°F to 300°F. Since the space is vacuum, the radiation from the Sun will be in the form of heat. So the temperature will reach up to 300°F in the Earth's orbit. When the satellite comes in the shadow of the Earth, the temperature will fall up to -200°F.
In extreme temperature and chillness the internal components of the satellite will not operate well. So it should be protected from extreme temperature and chillness.
The satellite is wrapped in such a way that it is insulated from such conditions. Multi Layer Insulation (MLI) is used to provide insulation. The wraps are usually made of Polyimide coated with very thin layers of Aluminium.
The outer layer we will be seeing out is made of Aluminized Polyimide. We will be seeing the golden coloured side. The silver coloured side will be facing in.
Multilayer are made based upon the requirement of insulation and the radiation influence.
MLI will reflect back the radiation of the Sun. It will also maintain the temperature of the internal components. It will prevent dust particles entering inside.
Gold is also used in some of the components of the satellite. Electrical contacts are made of Gold to prevent corrosion. Gold is used in Astronauts' visors to protect eyes from unfiltered sunlight.
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