Hypothesized Surface: Future Power Solutions for Exploring Hypothesized Surfaces – Astrocrafters

INSTITUTION

Arizona State University (ASU)

CLASS

Tungsten Class (2023 – 2024)

STUDENT TEAM

ACADEMIC GUIDANCE

Prof. James McDonald, Professor of Practice, School of Electrical, Computer and Energy Engineering, Arizona State University

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Our project is Stirling Engines for Space Applications aims to develop a comprehensive MATLAB-based model of a Stirling engine using Simscape. The objective is to enable high-level analysis of Stirling engines for potential use in space missions, particularly for the Psyche asteroid mission. The Stirling cycle, which involves cyclic compression and expansion of gas with an external heat source, offers advantages like high efficiency and reliability for extended space missions. The project involves extensive research on Stirling engine operation, the creation of a 3D model, and the implementation of non-idealities to optimize the engine. The model emphasizes analysis, optimization, and operational understanding, with potential educational uses as well.

 

GitHub

This work was created in partial fulfillment of the Arizona State University Capstone Course “EEE 488”. The work is a result of the Psyche Student Collaborations component of NASA’s Psyche Mission (https://psyche.asu.edu). “Psyche: A Journey to a Metal World” [Contract number NNM16AA09C] is part of the NASA Discovery Program mission to solar system targets. Trade names and trademarks of ASU and NASA are used in this work for identification only. Their usage does not constitute an official endorsement, either expressed or implied, by Arizona State University or National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of ASU or NASA.