Heat Pump Evaluation for Space Station ATCS Evolution

The “restructured” baseline has eliminated many options for Active Thermal Control System (ATCS) growth for Space Station Freedom (SSF). Modular addition of baseline technology to increase heat rejection will be extremely difficult. The system design and the available real estate no longer accommodate this type of growth.

As the station matures during its thirty years of operation, a demand of up to 165 kW of heat rejection can be expected. The baseline configuration will be able to provide 82.5 kW at Eight Manned Crew Capability (EMCC). A promising technology that could increase heat rejection by the necessary 82.5 kW is the heat pump. This paper provides a preliminary feasibility assessment of the application of a vapor compression heat pump to the ATCS.