Compressor for In-Space Gas Transfer and Pressurization

Future space exploration missions will entail extended, complex operations in space or on lunar and planetary surfaces, including many that require the efficient transfer and compression of gaseous propellant, pressurant, expendables, or products. Storage pressures may be extremely high, and gases of interest range from helium to xenon. Creare proposes to develop an innovative, compact compressor that will enable collection of essentially all the gas from the supply vessel while pressurizing to extremely high pressures (up to 6,000 psia) in the receiver. Our innovative compression and drive technology enables isothermal compression of any gas using high-reliability components that provide high rates of transfer, maintain ultrahigh gas purity, provide accurate measurement of the transfer rate, and simplify integration with spacecraft systems. In Phase I, we will prove the feasibility of our compressor through performance analysis, proof-of-concept testing, fabrication demonstrations, and mechanical design.
Benefits: NASA needs the compressor to support a wide range of space science and exploration applications, including refueling propellant systems with gaseous propellant and/or helium pressurant; extended operation, replenishment, and maintenance of life support systems; gas storage for in situ resource utilization; propellant storage and management; and refilling of oxygen tanks for frequent extravehicular activity. Missions that require the compressor include the Robotic Refueling Missions; On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing Missions; the Gateway Space Station; the Mars Transit Vehicle; and ongoing cryogenic fluid management programs. The key non-NASA application for Creare’s compressor will be refueling of gaseous propellant for the large and rapidly growing population of commercial satellites, which is expected to exceed 100,000 within a decade. Many of these satellites will use electric propulsion and xenon or krypton propellant, and they all stand to benefit from increased lifetime and/or enhanced capabilities if they could be refueled with high-pressure gas. Creare’s compressor will be an essential component of any space infrastructure developed to service and refuel these satellites.