Application of a refrigerator/phase-change cooler to a space-based sensor

Brian G. Williams; J. Clair Batty

doi:10.1117/12.178597

23 June 1994 Application of a refrigerator/phase-change cooler to a space-based sensor

Brian G. Williams, J. Clair Batty

Proceedings Volume 2227, Cryogenic Optical Systems and Instruments VI; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.178597
Event: SPIE's International Symposium on Optical Engineering and Photonics in Aerospace Sensing, 1994, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

This paper discusses the concept of a mechanical refrigerator integrated with a phase-change cryogen for cooling space borne sensors. Also described is the proposed integration of a small tactical mechanical refrigerator with a small amount of methanol to cool an orbiting sensor imaging atmospheric gravity waves. Included are the results of ground tests of the methanol melting/freezing process. Results indicate that a constant temperature during freezing and melting is possible if the heat loads into the system are low enough to maintain the phase-change substance near equilibrium. Plans for the next laboratory experiment are also outlined. The paper further presents a comparison of other substances that may be considered for use as a phase- change material.

Citation Download Citation

Brian G. Williams and J. Clair Batty "Application of a refrigerator/phase-change cooler to a space-based sensor", Proc. SPIE 2227, Cryogenic Optical Systems and Instruments VI, (23 June 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.178597

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available