Basic Study of the Water-Energy-Cycle Space System

Paper number

IAC-08.C3.3.8

Author

Dr. Koji Tanaka, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Coauthor

Prof. Kyoichiro Toki, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Yasunari Hashimoto, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Tadashi Ishii, Jisedaitech L. P., Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Takashi Fujita, Japan

Year

2008

Abstract

We have been made a study of the Water-Energy-Cycle Space System that provides life support system, energy storage and power generation, and propulsion for attitude and orbit control. This combined system consists of a solar panel, a water electrolysis system, a fuel cell, and a propulsion system, and this system supports long-term and large-scale space activity. The Water-Energy-Cycle Space Propulsion System (WECSPS) stores hydrogen and oxygen produced by electrolyzing water with electric power generated by solar panels. At times of shadowing etc, the hydrogen and oxygen which were stored are used for power generation by fuel cells, or are used as propellant of a spacecraft. In addition, it is highly efficient by using hydrogen/oxygen as propellants, and non-toxic to humans.
We made a proof model of The Water-Energy-Cycle Space System when it was assumed to install International Space Station module “JEM”, and executed the system performance examinations. The water electrolysis stack and fuel-cell stacks were separately installed in this proof model, and the stack of twenty cells had been manufactured and tested. Water cycle system was stored in the rack of the standard equipped with JEM standard. Moreover, the combustion test on carbon thruster that improved a heatproof performance of thruster was done.
Also, we make a system study on the application of the Water-Energy-Cycle Space System. Power system of the moon base is a candidate of this system. Evaluation of the applicable system of the moon base will be reported.

Abstract document

IAC-08.C3.3.8.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.C3.3.8.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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