Analysis and Design of a Multi-Plate Heat Radiator For Space and Planetary Probes

POLARIS Experiment is a technology demonstrator for a new concept of space radiator, which can vary its equivalent thermal resistance through an innovative working principle based on a geometry change. The experiment takes its name from its peculiar dielectric elastomer linear actuation system used to perform the geometry change. This paper presents a detailed description of the experiment analysis and design carried out by a team of university students from the University of Padova