Abstract <p>The shell structures made of prepreg-based composite materials are of particular interest in space applications. Due to incomplete matrix cure, the material retains elasticity sufficient for shaping structures directly in space conditions. Once the structure is fully deployed, the material is fully cured under heating by radiant energy, which makes it rigid and strong. The main sources of radiation in Earth orbits are the Sun and the Earth. The amount of radiation emitted by the Earth is less (but not negligible) than that of the Sun. The aim of this paper is to assess quantitatively the degree of impact of the Earth’s radiation on a space object in low Earth orbit. Emphasis is placed on studying the dependence of this impact on the position of an object relative to the Earth, including the change of day and night, and on its location over different parts of the planet (poles, equator).</p>