In-orbit demonstration of two-phase heat transport technology status of TPX II: reflight of the European two-phase experiment

摘要

In order to demonstrate two-phase heat transport system technology in orbit, the Dutch-Belgian Two-Phase experiment TPX was successfully flown as Get Away Special G557, aboard STS60, February 1994. Based on TPX conclusions and lessons learned, a reflight experiment TPX II is being developed in order to usefully fill the time gap between TPX and possible future full-scale Capillary Pumped Loop flights. The characteristics of TPX II, intended to fly early 1998, are discussed in detail: configuration and component changes, updates of objectives/scenario, current status, results of pre-launch (components) testing and outlook.