Atmospheric entry from sub-orbital speeds still requires thermal protection
Atmospheric entry, even from sub-orbital speeds, generates significant aerodynamic heating due to high-speed friction with air, making thermal protection systems essential to prevent structural failure.
The retrieved literature consistently confirms that high-speed atmospheric flight and reentry generate extreme aerodynamic heating (aerothermal effects) requiring robust thermal protection systems and insulation materials to protect vehicle structural integrity.
Kim M, Choi SM. Durability Assessment of Tile-Type Reusable Thermal Protection Materials.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19020303
Paper [3] discusses the durability and thermal performance of tile-type reusable thermal protection materials specifically designed for re-entry conditions.
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Jiang X, Guo Y, Zhou Y. Research Progress on Thermal Insulation Material Systems for High-Speed Aircrafts.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19071311
Paper [6] highlights how high-speed flight creates severe aerothermal effects and extreme surface temperatures, necessitating robust thermal insulation materials.
Badea TA, Crisan AA, Maier LR. Advanced Thermal Protection Systems Enabled by Additive Manufacturing of Hybrid Thermoplastic Composites.. 2025. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17222974
Paper [8] evaluates advanced hybrid composite thermal protection system prototypes designed to withstand extreme thermal exposure.
Qichen Zhuang, Robyn Ridley. The Development of Thermal Protection Systems for Aerospace Vehicle Reentry: A Review. 2024. https://doi.org/10.47611/jsrhs.v13i4.7581
Paper [11] reviews thermal protection systems as crucial components that prevent reentry heat from destroying spacecraft structures.
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