NASA and ALS Use X-Rays and AI to Observe Spacecraft Heat Shield Burn in Real Time

This announcement marks the first time researchers have been able to observe the degradation of spacecraft heat shields in real time, rather than relying on before-and-after analysis. The collaboration between NASA and the Advanced Light Source at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory utilized X-rays and artificial intelligence to monitor how heat shield materials burn during atmospheric entry. This advancement could lead to improved heat shield designs for safer spacecraft landings.

Originally published by gnews