Air Liquide and ESA Develop Zero Boil-Off Storage for In-Space Refueling under Odyssey Programme
Air Liquide is partnering with the European Space Agency on the Odyssey programme to develop zero boil-off storage for on-orbit cryogenic fuel depots, aiming to facilitate microgravity refueling of liquid gases for long-duration space missions. This technology is crucial for preventing the evaporation of cryogenic propellants, supporting future exploration initiatives to the Moon and Mars. The collaboration builds on Air Liquide's extensive history in space transportation and previous research on gas production and storage in space.
Theia Market Signal Identification - AI Assisted
Air Liquide is collaborating with the European Space Agency on the Odyssey programme to develop on-orbit cryogenic fuel depots, focusing on zero boil-off storage and microgravity refuelling of liquid gases. This initiative aims to establish fuel stations in orbit using liquid hydrogen or liquid oxygen, essential for long-duration missions to prevent cryogenic propellants from evaporating.
The technology may enhance Europe's capabilities for strategic exploration missions, including future Moon and Mars missions. Air Liquide's involvement in space transportation dates back to 1973 with the Ariane programme.
Additionally, US-based Eta Space is exploring long-duration cryogenic storage through its LOXSAT project. The Odyssey programme builds on Air Liquide's previous research on gas production and storage in space, initiated in partnership with CNES and other organizations in 2021.
Comments