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Active TRL 3 (started at 3, targeting 6)
The goal of the Alternative Cryocooler development activity is to broaden industry base and develop 20K and 90K Cryocooler alternatives - both various cycle and vendor alternatives - that can be infused into lunar and Mars missions. The activity will develop technology alternatives to existing Reverse Turbo-Brayton cycle 20K and 90K cryocooler systems, assess alternate concepts / supplier for components, and provide investment to continue the development of 90K and 20K cryocooler systems to a flight ready status of TRL 6.
Specific activity objectives include:
The benefit of the Alternative Cryocooler activity is to develop alternative technologies and suppliers for cryocoolers needed for long duration human exploration missions using cryogenic propellants. High Capacity Cryocoolers are deemed to be an enabling technology for the long-duration storage of cryogens requiring a robust technological and industrial base to support future missions. The Reverse Turbo-Brayton (RTB) cycle addresses the need for zero boil off storage of propellant cryogens critical to lunar and Mars in-space and surface architectures.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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.
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