Thermal protection device, in particular for an aerospace vehicle

A thermal protection device, in particular for an aircraft or a space vehicle, the device comprising a plurality of juxtaposed unit modules each comprising a fairing element provided with fixing tabs, thermal insulation integrated in the fairing elements, and rigid connection means for releasably connecting the fixing tabs to a primary structure that is to be protected,

• wherein the gap between neighboring fairing elements is limited to a value substantially equal to the minimum value necessary for accommodating thermal expansion of the fairing elements, and the rigid connection means for connecting a fixing tab of a module to the primary structure comprise a ball fixed to the fixing tabs in adjustable manner and capable of being locked inside a corresponding socket of a retaining part fixed to the primary structure, the ball being locked in its socket by means of a bolt capable of being released by action exerted against a resilient return force.