LUX-Thermal: A Heat Storage, Management and Distribution System on the Lunar Surface

The next decades will see a growing presence on the Lunar surface. Not only will robotic systems continue to explore the Moon, but also assist in establishing a permanent human presence. Various stationary and mobile assets will be needed to enable such a growth in Lunar exploration. Different systems have emerged during the last years that include instruments, vehicles, and habitats [1]. Due to the extreme thermal environment on the Lunar surface [2], the long-term survival constitutes the most important challenge during the designing of these systems as depicted by NASA in their shortfall ranking list [3]. Studies have identified that the electrical power needs of various systems during the night could range between 11 W to 6 kW ranging from rovers to habitats [4]. An attempt to meet these energy demands with a conventional combination of battery and PV systems would result in a significant mass penalty, with the additional disadvantage of not producing sufficient heat to meet the system’s demand during the Lunar night [5]. Dedicated technology is required to allow human-made objects to survive multiple diurnal cycles. Different approaches and technologies have been proposed by multiple entities, which might include radiator covers, variable conductance heat pipes and thermal switches [6, 7]. Lunar Outpost EU is developing LUX-Thermal, an autonomous, self-contained energy generation technology that provides thermal and electrical energy on demand. Its operation is based on the harnessing and storage of heat from multiple inputs during the day. During the Lunar night, it would provide power to customers in proximity, thus enabling their survival without additional internal subsystems. The testing of the first prototype showcasing the basic functionalities concluded in September 2024. The proposed paper might cover the ongoing development of the system, the latest results of the testing campaign, as well as the identified user needs.