Since precious metals have long been a part of the transportation infrastructure here on Earth, it should be no surprise that rockets, shuttles, rovers, and other equipment used in space travel would also incorporate them. Vehicles meant to navigate the Milky Way require excellent durability, and many common materials used on the Earth’s surface don’t hold up. Precious metals are the exception, providing robust and stable benefits in many ways.
Precious Metals in Telescopes
Gold and platinum have long been used in space telescope mirrors, but most telescope designs also protect the precious metals with a layer of some other material. In optical solar reflectors, a second mirror on the surface incorporates silver or aluminum with a layer of quartz. These reflectors help control temperature in environments high in radiation.
NASA’s Use of Gold
Those who follow NASA closely likely have seen photos of equipment covered by gold foil. This is not just for aesthetics. Gold acts as an incredible shield against radiation and heat from the sun. In outer space, radiation from the sun transfers heat directly into objects, much like a microwave oven, so insulation is not the best option. Gold-coated Mylar reflects heat without glare, keeping the instruments and astronauts cool.
Scientists have also discovered that, while copper and silver quickly tarnish in space air, gold does not. External reflectors on space shuttles incorporate gold as a component. Particles of gold are embedded in the visors of astronauts’ helmets, blocking certain types of radiation. Smaller electronic instruments also use gold in their wiring and circuit boards because of their natural anti-corrosion properties and effective conductivity.
Gold in Satellites
Most satellites use genuine gold in a thin layer on the surface called gold plating. This protects the satellite’s surface from radiation, dangerous temperatures, and electrical interference. To cover the satellite with gold plating, a small piece of gold is first placed on the surface. Then, the gold is connected to a power source, and an electrical current passes through it. This process, called electroplating, deposits the gold throughout the satellite’s surface. Other satellites have a thicker coat of gold plating called thick-film, usually reserved for devices needing extra protection from extreme temperatures or hazardous asteroid fields.
How much gold is used in satellites? While it varies from satellite to satellite as they come in all different sizes and designs, a small one could have as little as 0.1g, and a large one could have up to 5kg. Electroplated gold is so thin that it is usually less than 1g in total, but if the satellite has thick-film gold plating, it could be 1-5kg.
Other Uses for Precious Metals in Aerospace Equipment
Thanks to their many durable, conductive, and corrosion-resistant properties, precious metals are used in a wide variety of aerospace applications.
Gold is used for:
- Antennas
- Switches
- Relays
- Circuit breakers
- Receivers
- Transmitters
- Sensors
- Actuators
- Guidance systems
- Satellite wires
- Fuel injectors
Silver is used for:
- Solar panels
- Electrical contacts
- Thermal management
- Medical equipment
- Water filtration
Platinum is used for:
- Turbine blades
- Spark plugs
- Fuel cells
- Oxygen systems
- Electrical connectors
- Thermocouples
- Electrodes
- Shielding
