Requirements for long-life mechanical cryocoolers for space application

• Published in: Cryogenics (Guildford) 1990, Vol.30 (3), p.233-238
• Main Author: Ross, R.G
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; cryocoolers; Cryogenics; Energy; Energy. Thermal use of fuels; Exact sciences and technology; qualification testing; Refrigerating engineering. Cryogenics. Food conservation; space cryogenics; space instruments; space technology; specifications
• ISSN: 0011-2275; 1879-2235
• DOI: 10.1016/0011-2275(90)90083-O

The growing demand for long wavelength infrared and submillimetre imaging instruments for space observational applications, together with the emergence of the multi-year life Oxford University Stirling cycle cooler, has led to a rapidly expanding near term commitment to mechanical cryocoolers throughout the subkelvin to 150 K temperature range for long-life space missions. To satisfy this growing commitment, emerging cryocoolers must successfully address not only the input power, cooling power and mass constraints of the spacecraft and instruments, but also the broad array of complex interface requirements that critically affect successful integration to the sensitive instrument detectors. Vibration, electromagnetic interference and temperature instability (thermophonics) are particularly important parameters. Historically, the most difficult requirement to meet has been that of operational lifetime with very high reliability. After reviewing the cryogenic temperature ranges receiving the most emphasis within the instrument community, generic requirements are presented for each of these cryocooler requirement areas, which are then contrasted with the projected capabilities of emerging space cryocoolers. The degree of match is used to highlight both the strengths of existing technologies and the areas in need of increased development.