Thermoelectric generators for long duration lunar missions

The number of lunar missions involving the deployment of probes, rovers and other equipment is expected to raise significantly. Some of these missions will face the challenge to survive the night on the Moon, with very low temperatures on the surface. Solar thermal energy can be stored during the day and transformed into electricity at night. We present a study of the performance of thermoelectric modules. Some of the modules are used in simulations of a thermal energy storage system, which includes the test of different materials as a thermal mass. The power generated in all the cases is obtained.Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

Analysis of the characteristic lengths in the bubble and slug flow regimes generated in a capillary T-junction

We present an analysis of the geometry of the continuous and disperse phases in the bubble and slug flow regimes in air–water mixtures generated in a capillary T-junction of 1 mm internal diameter. Bubble size dispersion is very low in the considered flow patterns. The concept of unit cell is used to identify two characteristic lengths of the two-phase flow, namely, the unit cell length and the bubble length. The relationship between these lengths and the gas and liquid superficial velocities, gas mean velocity, bubble generation frequency and volume average void fraction is analysed. We conclude that in the considered configuration the unit cell and bubble lengths can be predicted either by the ratio of the gas–liquid superficial velocities or the volume average void fraction.Peer ReviewedPreprin

ESA/ELGRA gravity-related research summer school

Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

Modelling and Simulation of the Primary Power Distribution of a Lunar Habitat

A MATLAB/Simulink model of the Primary Power Distribution System of a lunar habitat is presented. The model can be adapted to multiple scenarios, and is able to interface with computer models of other habitat subsystems. A constant supply of power is considered regardless of the source and the time of the day, regulating the bus voltage when required. The electrical system of the International Space Station is used for reference and validation. The model has been tested in two scenarios representing two locations on the surface of the Moon.Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version