Why do the tiles that cover the outside of the spacecraft must be flexible?

Answer 1

The tiles that cover the outside of a spacecraft must be flexible to accommodate the extreme thermal expansion and contraction that occurs during launch and re-entry into the atmosphere. As temperatures can reach thousands of degrees Celsius, flexible tiles can better absorb and dissipate heat, preventing cracks or breakage. This flexibility also allows the tiles to better conform to the spacecraft's structure, ensuring a more effective thermal barrier and enhancing overall safety and performance.