Abstract: An RF absorber system (26) for absorbing RF energy in the payload chamber (20) of a launch vehicle is disclosed. The RF absorber system (26) includes a plurality of panels (27) for providing acoustic absorption and for housing RF absorbing material. The panels (27) comprise a plurality of acoustic absorbing layers (30a, 30b, and 30c) and at least two RF energy absorbing sheets (36a and 36b) for absorbing RF energy, and an outer film layer (38) for dissipating static charges and acting as a contaminant barrier. The panels (27) have an outer surface (32) and an inner surface (34). The RF energy absorbing sheets (36a and 36b) are sandwiched between the plurality of acoustic absorbing layers (30a, 30b, and 30c), thus creating alternating acoustic absorbing layers and RF energy absorbing sheets. The outer film layer (38) is secured to the outer surface (32) of the panel (27).