Mitigating Spacecraft Re-Entry Heat through Cryogenic Gas Emission: A Model for Electrostatic Energy Neutralization

This paper presents a novel approach to mitigating spacecraft re-entry heat by leveraging cryogenic charge neutralization via controlled gas emission. It proposes an electrostatic energy neutralization model that employs the Joule-Thomson effect to cool the spacecraft surface while simultaneously neutralizing accumulated electrostatic charges. By releasing supercooled cryogenic gases, such as liquid nitrogen or helium, the system creates rapid cooling through adiabatic expansion and dissipates surface charge, countering both thermal load and electrostatic stress. This dual-function system offers an innovative alternative to traditional thermal protection systems, aiming to enhance spacecraft reusability, reduce structural degradation, and support safe re-entry in high-energy atmospheric conditions.