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Name: SIRCA-15F [virgin]
Database: NASA Ames Thermal Protection Materials
Category: Silicon-Based Ablators
Composition: FRCI-12 tile, infiltrated w/ silicone
Manufacturer: NASA Ames Research Center, Thermal Protection Materials and Systems Branch
Technical Readiness Level: 9
Last Modified: 2001-10-01

Description:

• SIRCA-15F uses the Fibrous Refractory Ceramic Insulation, with 0.192 g/cc density (FRCI-12) tile substrate and is impregnated with silicone to produce a material with a final density of approximately 0.25 g/cc. SIRCA-15F was used for the aft plate heat shield and a portion of the conical aft section of the Mars/Pathfinder probe, which successfully landed on the Martian surface in July 1997. SIRCA-15F was designed, tested, and manufactured for the X-34 Program as a re-usable TPS for the nosecap and wing and rudder leading edges. SIRCA-15F is also being manufactured to support the Backshell Interface Plate (BIP) for the Mars 2003 Mission.

Point of Contact:

• Frank S. Milos
• NASA Ames Research Center
• fmilos@mail.arc.nasa.gov