Integral Radiators for Next Generation Thermal Control Systems, Phase II

Integral radiators integrate the primary structural system and the thermal rejection system into a dual function subsystem allowing for reduced weight. The design of these systems require a careful trade-off of thermal fluids, structural materials, thermal coatings and structural shape. The Paragon Crescent panels are a family of solutions that allow a highly efficient stressed skin, semi-monocoque structure to also be a radiator on the external surface of a Apollo-like Service Module as envisioned for the CEV. The resulting design optimizes the structural/thermal trade-off while allowing for practical considerations of manufacturability, ground handling, testing, and access. The baseline materials and fluids chosen address cost, safety and robust design. Some coating development is still needed to meet the handling requirements. The structural concept will need to be tested to validate modeling predictions and gain experience in structural behavior. Finally, full up radiator panels need to be manufactured and tested to validate the manufacturing methods, thermal analysis, and overall radiator/thermal fluid choices.

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.

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.