Advanced Thermal Control Technologies for European Space Station Modules

The European space station activities are momentary concentrated on the “COLUMBUS” studies. The high heat transport capabilities, required for the COLUMBUS modules necessitate further development of “Two-Phase Flow Heat Transport” systems as well as hybrid radiator elements. Within a technology study, sponsored by ESTEC, a dedicated design for a European platform had been defined after the evaluation and analysis of the COLUMBUS platform requirements. The proposed solution will be described in detail. The design possibilities of space constructable/deployable heat pipe radiators applicable for COLUMBUS modules will be given. In addition, the growth capabilities of these concepts and maintainability aspects will be explained.