Fabric, Inflated, Insulating Shroud for Cryogenic In-Space Transportation

The Cryogenic Encapsulating Launch Shroud and Insulated Upper Stage (CELSIUS) innovative layered system combines functions of Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI), Micro-Meteoroid and Orbital Debris (MMOD) protection, and fairing functions (exposure to free stream) into a deterministic soft-goods system that provides far greater performance for far less mass than the equivalent State of the Art (SOTA) systems performing the same functions. CELSIUS provides nearly perfect radiation dominated thermal performance. A 5 layer system MLI/MMOD system limits heat load to a cryogen to 95% probability of no penetration for a two year mission in low Earth orbit and is readily scalable to other mission types. The system is applicable to large structures, including cryogenic tanks. Furthermore CELSIUS is robust enough to tolerate the vibrations, load, dynamic pressures, and heating of the launch ascent environment allowing it to protect nearly any portion of the launch stack up to and including serving as a complete launch fairing. Our Phase II effort matures the concept through analysis, design, subscale test and validation activities; including simulation of the highest risk areas of free-stream exposer and vibration at launch followed by system deployment while at cryogenic cold-soak. This effort significantly improves the TRL of the system and we exit Phase II with complete validation and having completed a Preliminary Design cycle in support of technology insertion onto the SLS EUS.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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