How does the space capsule work?

A space capsule is an often-crewed spacecraft that uses a blunt-body reentry capsule to reenter the Earth’s atmosphere without wings. Capsules are distinguished from satellites primarily by the ability to survive reentry and return a payload to the Earth’s surface from orbit.

Why do space shuttles burn on reentry?

During re-entry, the shuttle is going so fast, it compresses the air ahead of it. The compression of the air layers near the leading edges of the shuttle is quick, causing the temperature of the air to rise to as high as 3000 degrees Fahrenheit! Being in contact with the shuttle, it heats the shuttle’s surface.

Why do satellites burn up on reentry?

Burning metal and “spacecraft cemeteries” Getting rid of the smaller satellites in low orbits is simple. The heat from the friction of the air burns up the satellite as it falls toward Earth at thousands of miles per hour.

Why do things burn up on reentry?

The answer is velocity and compression. Incoming objects are moving at incredible speeds, and as they do they’re compressing the air in front of them. According to the gas laws of chemistry, compressing a gas heats it up, and there’s a whole lot of compressing going on during reentry.

What materials are used in space capsules for reentry?

Most space capsules have used an ablative heat shield for reentry and been non-reusable. The early spacecraft had a coating of glass embedded with synthetic resin and put in very high temperatures.

What is the best position to reenter a space capsule?

Space capsules are well-suited to high energy reentries. Capsules reenter aft-end first with the occupants lying down, as this is the optimum position for the human body to withstand the g-forces induced as the capsule impacts the atmosphere.

What is the difference between a satellite and a capsule?

Capsules are distinguished from satellites primarily by the ability to survive reentry and return a payload to the Earth’s surface from orbit. Capsule-based crewed spacecraft such as Soyuz or Orion are often supported by a service or adapter module, and sometimes augmented with an extra module for extended space operations.

What happens when a space capsule enters the atmosphere?

When the space capsule comes through the atmosphere the capsule compresses the air in front of it, which heats up to very high temperatures.