ComPair Thermal Modeling

The goal of this IRAD was to provide the thermal modeling support for the ComPair balloon payload and ensure the successful operation of the instrument at balloon altitudes. The team at WFF developed a thermal model for the ComPair instrument in Thermal Desktop. A full TVAC test of the balloon payload at GSFC (supported through APRA) allowed the thermal modeling team to benchmark the models with real measurements, giving more accurate estimates for the temperatures expected during the balloon flight. After iterating with the model and measurements, the predictions for the balloon flight were above the nominal operating temperature for two of the detector subsystems, and the WFF team help consult on a thermal solution which involved heavy copper straps and a radiator. The ComPair balloon payload was launched in August 2023, and had a successful 5-hour flight, achieving its main goals. The predictions from the thermal modeling were fairly accurate when compared with the measured performance in flight, and if it wasn't for the work in this IRAD, the team would not have been properly prepared to handle the flight environment. This IRAD resulted in the successful flight, and great science data.

The purpose of the Goddard Space Flight Center’s Internal Research and Development (IRAD) program is to support new technology development and to address scientific challenges.  Each year, Principal Investigators (PIs) submit IRAD proposals and compete for funding for their development projects.  Goddard’s IRAD program supports eight Lines of Business: Astrophysics; Communications and Navigation; Cross-Cutting Technology and Capabilities; Earth Science; Heliophysics; Planetary Science; Science Small Satellites Technology; and Suborbital Platforms and Range Services.

Task progress is evaluated twice a year at the Mid-term IRAD review and the end of the year. When the funding period has ended, the PIs compete again for IRAD funding or seek new sources of development and research funding, or agree to external partnerships and collaborations.  In some cases, when the development work has reached the appropriate Technology Readiness Level (TRL) level, the product is integrated into an actual NASA mission or used to support other government agencies. The technology may also be licensed out to the industry.

The completion of a project does not necessarily indicate that the development work has stopped.  The work could potentially continue in the future as a follow-on IRAD; or be used in collaboration or partnership with Academia, Industry, and other Government Agencies.

If you are interested in partnering with NASA, see the TechPort Partnerships documentation available on the TechPort Help tab. http://techport.nasa.gov/help