Why are space ships black and white? I doubt it was just because they liked the colors, there must have been a reason!
2007-03-28 03:04:40 · 7 answers · asked by Roxasbhk 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
the only ones ive seen are silver
2007-03-28 03:08:58 · answer #1 · answered by wildrice64 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you take the Saturn V, it has black stripes on the first stage and second stages, against a field of white. The interstage (the cone-shaped piece) between the 2nd & third stages has a distinct black & white pattern as well.
When the rocket lifts off, after the tower is cleared, it rotates about 80 degrees. The shuttle does this as well. Cameras on the ground keep a close watch on the rotation - and it's made easier with the distinct stripes the way they're painted. It's a quick way to verify the on-board navigation equipment with a visual check.
2007-03-28 06:02:13 · answer #2 · answered by quantumclaustrophobe 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Mostly for thermal reasons. Take the shuttle - black on the bottom for radiating heat during reentry and white on top for reflecting the heat of the sun.
2007-03-28 03:10:13 · answer #3 · answered by Gene 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
white because it reflects heat from the sun.
2007-03-28 03:23:07 · answer #4 · answered by neutron 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they are mainly white because white reflects heat?
2007-03-28 03:09:12 · answer #5 · answered by spandex 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
those are the cheapest paints..
2007-03-28 03:12:49 · answer #6 · answered by eviot44 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
-----------Ask Nasa in Huntsville, Ala.-----------
2007-03-28 03:35:10 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋