IRIS- InfraRed Intelligent Surfaces
Theme: Technologies
IRIS will create a smart "skin" for spacecraft that can be switched on demand to hold onto heat or dump it into space. This helps satellites and space instruments stay at the right temperature as they move in and out of sunlight, reducing the need for bulky insulation and power-hungry heaters. The technology is a thin, lightweight coating that changes how it gives off heat when a small voltage is applied - like a dimmer switch, but for thermal radiation. We will build and test hand-sized prototype panels using scalable printing methods to demonstrate the feasibility and performance metrics and engage with UK space industry partners.
More about the Project Lead:
Toby Hallam as a senior Lecturer at Newcastle University. He has more than two decades of experience in applied materials including organic electronics and two-dimensional materials. His recent work has explored the use of natural polyelectrolytes for non-toxic disposable electronics
