NASA is in the planning and investigation process of developing innovative paths for human space exploration that strengthen the capability to extend human and robotic presence beyond low Earth orbit and throughout the solar system. NASA is establishing the foundations to enable humans to safely reach multiple potential destinations, including the Moon, asteroids, Lagrange points, and Mars and its environs through technology and capability development. To achieve access to these destinations within a reasonable flight time will require the use of high performance cryogenic propulsion systems. Therefore NASA is examining mission concepts for a Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer (CPST) Flight Demonstration which will test and validate key capabilities and technologies required for future exploration elements such as large cryogenic propulsion stages and propellant depots. The CPST project will perform key ground testing in fiscal year 2012 and execute project formulation and implementation leading to a flight demonstration in 2017.
Concept Design of Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer for Space Exploration
2012
8 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Fuels , Rocket Propellants , Propellant storage , Storable propellants , Flight tests , Cryogenic tanks , Tank geometry , Propellant transfer , Cryogenic rocket propellants , Cryogenic fluid storage , Space missions , Long duration space flight , Ground tests , Liquid hydrogen , Liquid oxygen , Microgravity , Vacuum chambers , Methane , Research facilities , Space exploration