Lunar ISRU energy storage and electricity generation. (May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Palos, Mario F.; Serra, Pol; Fereres, Sonia; Stephenson, Keith; González-Cinca, Ricard
• Is Part Of: Acta astronautica. Volume 170(2020)
• Page Start: 412
• Page End: 420
• Publication Date: 2020-05
• Subjects: Moon -- ISRU; Astronautics -- Periodicals; Outer space -- Exploration -- Periodicals; Astronautics; Periodicals; 629.405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2020.02.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0094-5765

Abstract

Abstract: Fifty years after the first human step on the Moon, many challenges for its exploration have yet to be overcome. Among them, the survival of the crew and/or lunar assets during the lunar night is mandatory for long duration missions. The environmental conditions of the lunar surface and its day-night cycle, with long periods of darkness, make the provision of energy a critical challenge. Several approaches have recently been considered to store and provide energy in the surface of the Moon by means of ISRU (In-Situ Resource Utilisation). We present a trade-off analysis of the options identified for an ISRU-based system to store heat and generate electricity for lunar missions with both robotic and human activities. A critical review of the energy requirements for a mission scenario consisting of long duration stays on the lunar surface has been carried out. Technologies potentially suitable for system components have been identified. These technologies are related to solar energy collection, heat transport, heat storage, heat-to-electricity conversion, and heat rejection. The outcome of the trade-off analysis provides a selection of the most suitable technologies to use in an ISRU-based heat storage and electricity generation system. Highlights: Review of power requirements for a lunar habitat. Definition of a trade-off methodology. Trade-off analysis for each subsystem and for the full ISRU-based power system. Selection of the most suitable set of components for the power system.