Usage of ITO to Prevent Spacecraft Charging

FEP Teflon, Kapton and Quartz mirror coated with Indium Oxide or Indium Tin Oxide were evaluated as non-charging spacecraft thermal control surfaces. Coatings from 50Ã… to 600Ã… were evaluated under environmental conditions of: solar visible, UV and X-rays; thermal shock; extreme temperatures; abrasion and handling; high energy radiation; humidity; vacuum; and chemicals. Material parameters measured were: electrical resistivity, optical absorptivity and emissivity, adhesion, abrasion resistance, and flexibility. The samples qualify for space use and do not arc under space simulating irradiation. Coating "grounding" techniques were also developed.