heat shield

noun

: a barrier of ablative material to protect a space capsule from heat on its entry into an atmosphere

Examples of heat shield in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The new design is focused on rapid reusability, with easier access and serviceability to components of the engines and heat shield. Eric Berger, Ars Technica, 14 Feb. 2025 Unlike the Falcon 9 rocket, which has been used for years to carry satellites and astronauts to orbit with a partially reusable design, SpaceX says Starship will be fully reusable and will eventually include a heat shield that can be rapidly redeployed without significant refurbishing. Matthew Glasser, ABC News, 16 Jan. 2025 Flight 6 also tested modifications to Ship's heat shield, which protects the vehicle during reentry to Earth's atmosphere. Tariq Malik, Space.com, 10 Jan. 2025 One eBay listing for a heat shield tile allegedly recovered from Turks and Caicos has a bid for $3,000. Jackie Wattles, CNN, 30 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for heat shield 

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of heat shield was in 1962

Dictionary Entries Near heat shield

Cite this Entry

“Heat shield.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heat%20shield. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

heat shield

noun
: a barrier of insulation to protect a space capsule from heat on its return to earth
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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