  This article investigates the profile of the scalar field of a scalar-tensor
theory subject to the chameleon mechanism in the context of gravity space
missions like the MICROSCOPE experiment. It analyses the experimental
situations for models with an inverse power law potential that can in principle
induce a fifth force inside the satellite, hence either be detected or
constrained. As the mass of the scalar field depends on the local matter
density, the screening of the scalar field depends crucially on both the
parameters of the theory (potential and non-minimal coupling to matter) and on
the geometry of the satellite. We calculate the profile of the scalar field in
1-, 2- and 3-dimensional satellite configurations without relying on the thick
or thin shell approximations for the scalar field. In particular we consider
the typical geometry with nested cylinders which is close to the MICROSCOPE
design. In this case we evaluate the corresponding fifth force on a test body
inside the satellite. This analysis clarifies previous claims on the
detectability of the chameleon force by space-borne experiments.
