A Novel, Ultra-Light, Heat Rejection System for Nuclear Power Generation, Phase II

For lunar-based fission power systems that will support In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) or Mars robotic and manned missions, power requirements may vary from 10s to 100s of kWe to support initial human missions and longer term lunar bases. Due to the large amounts of waste heat generated by these systems, a key consideration is the development of lightweight, highly efficient heat rejection systems (HRS) that can operate at elevated temperatures (~550 K). Our innovation is the integration of an ultra-light radiator panel with a lightweight titanium heat pipe. Our approach will reduce the total mass by 32% compared to our baseline design. In addition, our innovation will greatly surpass the performance of carbon-composite systems under consideration and represents a lower risk approach to achieve a practical HRS. In Phase I, we demonstrated the feasibility by fabricating, demonstrating, and delivering a proof-of-concept panel. During Phase II, we will fabricate, test, and deliver a full-scale prototype.

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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