Physics-based Formulation of Tailored Ionic Liquids for Spacecraft Thermal Control

A novel and versatile spacecraft coolant capable of efficient operation in various temperature extremes would be a game-changer for future space missions to challenging conditions such as frigid lunar nights, low-power intervals, extended interplanetary journeys, or high-temperature conditions near the sun. Ionic liquids, a novel category of purely ionic substances resembling salts, emerge as a favorable option for spacecraft cooling due to their potential to maintain a liquid state across a wide temperature span. Using a physics-based systematic approach, we aim to create suitable tailored ionic liquids and binary or tertiary ionic liquid mixtures to serve as a spacecraft coolant that could simplify spacecraft design and reduce overall system mass, resulting in lower launch costs and increased payload capacity.

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