Deutsch: Licht / Español: Luz / Português: Luz / Français: Lumière / Italiano: Luce /
Light or visible light is electromagnetic radiation that can be perceived by the human eye. Visible light is usually defined as having wavelengths in the range of 400–700 nanometres (nm), corresponding to frequencies of 750–420 terahertz, between the infrared (with longer wavelengths) and the ultraviolet (with shorter wavelengths).
In the aerospace context, light refers to the electromagnetic radiation that is visible to the human eye. Light plays an important role in aerospace engineering, as it is used for navigation, communication, and observation. Light can also have significant impacts on aerospace vehicles and their components, and managing light exposure is an important aspect of aerospace design.
Examples of light in aerospace include:
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Navigation lights: Aerospace vehicles are equipped with lights to indicate their position and direction of travel. These lights are typically red, green, and white, and are located on the wings and tail of the aircraft.
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Landing lights: When landing or taking off, aerospace vehicles often use bright lights to illuminate the runway and improve visibility. These lights can be mounted on the vehicle itself or on the runway.
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Instrument lighting: In the cockpit of an aerospace vehicle, lighting is used to illuminate the instruments and controls. This ensures that the pilot can read the instruments and make adjustments as needed, even in low light conditions.
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Optical communication: Aerospace vehicles can also use light for communication, particularly in space applications. Optical communication uses lasers to transmit data between spacecraft or from spacecraft to Earth.
Similar concepts in aerospace to managing light exposure include:
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Thermal management: As with radiation management, aerospace vehicles must also manage the transfer of heat from light sources. This includes controlling the absorption and reflection of light to prevent overheating of sensitive components.
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Spectral management: Aerospace vehicles may also need to manage the specific wavelengths of light that are allowed to pass through or interact with their systems. This can include filtering out harmful wavelengths, such as ultraviolet radiation, or using specific wavelengths for communication or sensing purposes.
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Optical sensor design: Aerospace vehicles may also use optical sensors for navigation, observation, and other applications. The design of these sensors must take into account the specific wavelengths of light that will be encountered in the vehicle's environment.
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Optical coating design: To manage the reflection and absorption of light, aerospace vehicles may use specialized coatings on their surfaces. These coatings can be designed to reflect or absorb specific wavelengths of light, depending on the needs of the vehicle.
In summary, light plays an important role in aerospace engineering, and is used for navigation, communication, and observation. Examples of light in aerospace include navigation lights, landing lights, and instrument lighting. Similar concepts to managing light exposure include thermal management, spectral management, optical sensor design, and optical coating design. Proper management of these factors is crucial for safe and efficient operation of aerospace vehicles.