100 K Cooling Performance of a Modified Collins Cycle Cryocooler for In-space Applications

Abstract This paper presents 100 K cooling performance of a Modified Collins cycle cryocooler designed for in-space cooling applications. Descriptions of this lightweight, high efficiency, and power dense cryocooler design are included. Experimental results are shown of a single-stage floating piston design with active control designed to provide 100 W of cooling at temperatures below 100 K. Maintenance of in-space cryogenic fuels (liquid methane and liquid hydrogen) and liquid oxygen should be possible with this medium-scale, continuous flow architecture.