Behavior of Stuffed Whipple Shields Subjected to Micrometeoroid and Orbital Debris Impact

In order to build permanent off-earth structures, protection against the hypervelocity impact (HVI) of micrometeoroids and orbital debris (MMOD) is required. Shielding systems comprising single or multiple walls are currently being used in different parts of the International Space Station (ISS) as well as in spacecraft. The Stuffed Whipple Shield (SWS), a derivative of the Whipple Shield, has been used in some parts of the ISS. However, the behavior of the shield is not entirely understood due to the complex nature of the impact of projectiles. This paper provides an overview of the response of SWS to HVI of projectiles. First, the baseline configuration of the shield is briefly introduced. Experimental assessment methods used to evaluate the behavior of the shield are then discussed, along with the response of the shield. Design equations for predicting the performance of the shield and its sizing are also presented. Finally, the prediction of the equations is validated with experimental data available in the literature.