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Have Indian companies been able to devlop such heat sheilding tiles that are more affordable than the ones NASA developed for their space shuttle? IIRC each individual tile cost >$100,000 USD.

We've had this for several years (more than a decade). I think the initial ceramics research was done for creating re-entry warheads. You can see the nose cones of Agni 1 and make out the black ceramics covering them. I think all other applications were built on/ adaptations of that kernel work.

You can make out the ceramics on the top as being 'black' in color

Agni1.jpg
 
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NASA offers space shuttle tiles to school and universities


Schools and universities across the country have a chance to get their hands on tiles from the space shuttle.

As the space shuttle program nears retirement, NASA has come up with a new plan to inspire the next generation of space explorers.

Starting Wednesday, NASA is offering 7,000 space shuttle heat tiles to school and universities that want to share technology and a piece of space history.

The tiles are lightweight and protect the space shuttles from extreme temperatures when the orbiters re-enter the Earth's atmosphere.

The tiles are available on a first-come, first-serve basis at one per school.

All recipients will be responsible for the shipping and handling fee of $23.40.
 
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Have Indian companies been able to devlop such heat sheilding tiles that are more affordable than the ones NASA developed for their space shuttle? IIRC each individual tile cost >$100,000 USD.

NASA Offers Space Shuttle Tiles To Schools | Space.com

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From above link:
According to the tiles' manufacturer, Lockheed Martin, the baked silica squares originally cost NASA about $10,000 per square foot installed. Typically, tiles measure about a quarter of that, or 6 by 6 inches (15.2 by 15.2 cm).
So cost of a sheilding tile would be around 2500$.
 
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