Space Thermoacoustic Radioisotopic Power System, SpaceTRIPS: The Magnetohydrodynamic Generator

Electricity production is a major problem for deep space exploration. The possibility of using radioisotope elements with a very long life as an energy source was investigated in the framework of an EU project “SpaceTRIPS”. For this, a two-stage system was tested, the first in which thermal energy is converted into mechanical energy by means of a thermoacoustic process, and the second where mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy by means of a magnetohydrodynamic generator (MHD). The aim of the present study is to develop an analytical model of the MHD generator. A one-dimensional model is developed and presented that allows us to evaluate the behavior of the device as regards both electromagnetic and fluid-dynamic aspects, and consequently to determine the characteristic values of efficiency and power.

Design and Analysis of the Rolling and Jumping Compound Motion Robot

Complex and unknown areas in deep space exploration present major challenges to the motion ability of current space robots. Different from the traditional single-mode motion space robot, a compound motion robot with flexible movement and strong obstacle surmounting ability is proposed. Through the highly integrated structure design, the lightweight robot has the ability of rolling and jumping, and the kinematic characteristics of the robot under two motion modes are analyzed. This work provides a reference for the design of deep space exploration equipment with high motion capability in the future.

Extraterrestrial Photosynthesis by Chang’E-5 Lunar Soil

In light of significant effort conducted to manned deep space exploration, it is of high technological importance and scientific interest to develop the lunar life supporting system for long-term exploration and exploitation. And lunar in situ resource utilization offers great opportunity to provide the material basis of life supporting for lunar habitation and traveling. Based on the analysis of the structure and composition, the Chang’E-5 lunar soil sample was used for lunar-surface solar energy conversion, i.e. the extraterrestrial photosynthesis catalysts. By evaluating the performance of the Chang’E-5 lunar sample as photovoltaic-driven electrocatalyst, photocatalyst and photothermal catalysts, the full water splitting and CO2 conversion are able to be achieved with solar energy, water and lunar soil, with a wide range of product distribution, including O2, H2, CO, CH4 and CH3OH. Thus, we propose a potentially available extraterrestrial photosynthesis pathway on the moon, which could help us to achieve a ‘zero-energy consumption’ environment and life support system on the moon.

System Design for Ammonia Nuclear Thermal Propulsion

Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) for deep space exploration is promising. Hydrogen is employed as the propellant to enhance the maximized specific impulse of NTP. Whereas, the low boiling point and density of hydrogen lead to several issues related to safety and storage. From the perspective of reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, material compatibility, and experience in the aerospace field, ammonia (NH3) is the alternative propellant to replace hydrogen. To analyze the specific impulse and system parameters of ammonia NTP, the hydrogen expander cycle NTP system analysis program PANES (Program for Analyzing Nuclear Engine Systems) is improved. The thermophysical properties library of ammonia has been increased in PANES. Based on the same thrust with hydrogen NTP, the design and analysis of ammonia NTP systems are carried out. This paper improves the PANES program and calculates the NTP performance parameters for potential alternative propellant ammonia, which provides a reference for the design of ammonia NTP system.