A satellite consists basically of a metallic structure, in which several electronic devices are placed. Such devices have small operation temperature ranges, close to temperatures on earth. While orbiting, a satellite encounters rather severe thermal conditions. For instance, the part of the satellite facing the Sun may be under +100ºC while the dark side of the satellite may be under -100ºC. Also, these devices generate heat because of the Joule effect, which must be removed from the satellite in order to avoid any excessive temperature which could damage the devices. Therefore, the satellite thermal control ensures that the devices temperature remain within acceptable range, even under such severe thermal conditions.