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How does the International Space Station use Whipple shields to protect against micrometeoroids?

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Meteor and meteoroid The Cabin Creek meteorite, an iron (nickel-iron alloy) meteorite that was observed to fall in northwestern Arkansas on March 27, 1886. Its characteristic pattern of “thumbprint” dimples, or regmaglypts, is the result of melting and consequent ablation of its surface as it traveled through the atmosphere. The meteorite is likely a fragment of one of the M class asteroids, which show significant nickel-iron in their surface material.

The International Space Station utilizes a "dust bumper," known as a Whipple shield, to protect its components from the high-speed impact of micrometeoroids and orbiting debris.1

Named after the American astronomer Fred Whipple, this protective system is essential because micrometeoroids travel at speeds in the tens of kilometers per second. At these velocities, even particles as small as a few hundred micrometers can puncture vital spacecraft components or create clouds of ions that may short-circuit electrical systems.1

The Whipple shield functions by intercepting these particles before they can reach the primary structure of the station. By providing a sacrificial layer, the shield causes the high-velocity impactor to break apart or vaporize upon contact, effectively dissipating its kinetic energy and preventing damage to the station's main hull. Additionally, spacesuits designed for extravehicular activity incorporate similar protective layers to ensure the safety of astronauts.1