[Spaceships] Query: Can dirt shielding reduce an IR Signature?

[David Johnston2]

Originally Posted by DaltonS

It started as a tagline in a post, but as I considered it took on the dimensions of a real question. When the Pyramid #3/34: Alternate GURPS article "Alternate Spaceships" introduced the concept of Spaceships as Buildings (page 9) I wondered if putting heat producing systems in the basement levels would reduce their IR signature from outside. How would I determine and calculate this? (Remember sensor readings on a building would not serve the same purposes as those on a spaceship.)

Dalton “Well, is there a reactor down there or not?” Spence

You can't just insulate and keep the heat from getting out. You'll melt. What you could do is use the water table to spread out your heat and make your heat signature less distinct.