In-Space Cryogenic Propellant Depot Stepping Stone

Paper number

IAC-05-D3.2.01

Author

Mr. Joe T. Howell, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), United States

Coauthor

Mr. John Fikes, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)/Marshall Space Flight Center, United States

Coauthor

Mr. John C. Mankins, ARTEMIS Innovation Management Solutions, LLC, United States

Year

2005

Abstract

An In-Space Cryogenic Propellant Depot is a Stepping Stone to provide the capability to preposition, store, manufacture, and later use the propellants for Earth–Neighborhood campaigns and beyond. The in-space propellant depot will provide affordable propellants and similar consumables to support the development of sustainable and affordable exploration strategies as well as commercial space activities. An in-space propellant depot not only requires technology development in key areas such as zero boiloff storage and fluid transfer, but in other areas such as lightweight structures, highly reliable connectors, and autonomous operations. These technologies can be applicable to a broad range of propellant depot concepts or specific to a certain design. In addition, these technologies are required for spacecraft and orbit transfer vehicle propulsion and power systems, and space life support. Generally, applications of this technology require long-term storage, on-orbit fluid transfer and supply, cryogenic propellant production from water, unique instrumentation and autonomous operations. 

This paper briefly discusses achieving a promising approach to the systems planning and evolution into a meaningful stepping stone design, development, and implementation of an In-Space Cryogenic Propellant Depot.  The success of this well planned and orchestrated approach holds great promise for achieving innovation and revolutionary technology development for supporting future exploration and development of space.

Abstract document

IAC-05-D3.2.01.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-D3.2.01.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.