What are the advantages of using space tiles as opposed to a

What are the advantages of using space tiles as opposed to a heat shield (the system used on the early space missions)?

Solution

The term \"heat shield\" refers primarily to a special structure that protects a re-entry vehicle from the intense heat generated by friction with a planet\'s atmosphere. Less commonly, it can refer to the insulating material that surrounds the entire spacecraft, protecting the interior from the extremes in temperature encountered during the course of the mission.

The Thermal Protection System(TPS) was a system of different protection types, not just silica tiles. They are in two basic categories: tile TPS and non-tile TPS. The main selection criteria used the lightest weight protection capable of handling the heat in a given area. However in some cases a heavier type was used if additional impact resistance was needed. The FIB blankets were primarily adopted for reduced maintenance, not for thermal or weight reasons.