A Next Generation Spacecraft Heat Rejection System

In response to NASA SBIR FY 2018 topic Z2.01, Thermal Management, ThermAvant Technologies, LLC proposes to develop an innovative, passive heat transfer device that can significantly improve the spacecraft's thermal control system, namely around heat acquisition and rejection capabilities. ThermAvant proposes to develop an advanced Oscillating Heat Pipe (OHP) based heat rejection system that will enable next generation communications and power electronics to be easily integrated into space vehicle systems. ThermAvant's research team will demonstrate the proposed concepts and innovations through design, manufacturing and laboratory testing.

This proposal aims to primarily address NASA's needs as described in Focus Area 17 (Thermal Management) by developing an innovative, "passive" technology to "reject heat", maintain temperatures within "design limits", and do so in a "lightweight" form factor. Two specific programs that could greatly benefit from the technology are the DRM 5 Asteroid Redirect and the New Frontiers Program 4. Less specifically, nearly all future NASA missions will likely require the highest efficiency radiators, as the backbone of their thermal control system.

Large-format, high capacity radiators will have applications in terrestrial vehicles with electrical loads, and in large industrial vehicles where the proposed passive solution may be able replace actively pumped single-phase radiators with air cooled systems. These panels may be a viable solution for acquiring heat and rejecting to the heat sink (air, space, water, etc.).

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.