A spacecraft is provided. The spacecraft comprises a plurality of heat generating electrical components. A first thermal radiator panel and a second thermal radiator panel are provided on the spacecraft, each panel being thermally coupled to the heat generating electrical components. Heat pipes are also provided. At least one first heat pipe is externally attached to the first thermal radiator panel and at least one second heat pipe is externally attached to the second thermal radiator panel. The at least one first heat pipe is thermally coupled to the at least one second heat pipe.