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Active TRL 1 (started at 1, targeting 3)
Models of nested tank concepts, i.e., a tank within a tank, will be developed, and a trade study will be performed to identify potential utility of nested tank concepts against more traditional tank concepts for long duration cryogenic propellant storage. Nested tank design leverages existing thermal features of liquid nitrogen shielded dewars and incorporates structural features needed for spacecraft including surviving launch loads. Additionally, a test plan will be developed to demonstrate thermal performance of a nested tank.
Nested tanks have the potential to improve thermal performance by heat leak reduction and leveraging propellant shielding. Shielding allows spacecraft designers to consolidate heat rejection systems placing the greatest burden on more efficient systems. Additionally, nested tanks have to potential to greatly improve packing efficiency compared to equivalent volume but separate tanks.
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