UCI Spacecraft Thermal Management Systems

UCI Spacecraft Thermal Management Systems is a student-led R&D project at UC Irvine, specializing in innovative thermal control solutions for satellites.

Based in Irvine, California, our team of undergraduate engineering students is dedicated to developing a variable emittance radiator – a device that dynamically adjusts its emissivity to optimize heat rejection in space. This technology addresses a critical challenge in satellite design, minimizing heat gain from sunlight and maximizing heat dissipation.

Our research focuses on electrochromic film technology, offering a lightweight and reliable alternative to traditional radiator designs. We are currently collaborating with UCI CubeSat and the High Heat Flux research project, aiming to launch and test our experimental device in the Spring of 2021. We are committed to advancing space exploration through practical, student-driven engineering innovation.