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Originally Posted by multiweb
Do they have some kind of heat shield on the vehicle?
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I think that because it's really big and relatively light during reentry it doesn't experience the kind of temperatures that the shuttle/capsules do. I suppose they'll still need something to dissipate heat but it probably doesn't need to be ablative.
EDIT: just checked Wikipedia
Referring to the STS TPS -
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The Skylon design does not require such a system, instead opting for using a far thinner yet durable reinforced ceramic skin. However, due to turbulent flow around the wings during re-entry, some parts of Skylon would need to be actively cooled.
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