Space Flight Demonstration development has been canceled in favor of a ground test bed development for of passive/active cryogenic propellant storage, transfer, and gauging systems in space for infusion into future extended in-space missions. The Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer project will demonstrate the capability to safely and efficiently store, transfer and measure cryogenic propellants, including liquefied and super-cooled fuels and oxidizers. These advances will lead to development of next-generation space transportation systems capable of managing large propellant volumes over long time periods necessary for deep space travel. NASA's Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate is a primary customer and new opportunities will follow for the agency's industry partners. CPST: Key Mission Facts - The Cryogenic Propellant Storage & Transfer mission will demonstrate technologies required for the development of in-space cryogenic systems to support exploration beyond low-Earth orbit. - The mission will support multiple human architecture elements - It is designed to demonstrate long-duration, storage and transfer of cryogenic propellants. - It will demonstrate an accurate and reliable gauging system for tracking stored propellant.
More »Developing enabling technologies for the use of high-performance propulsion systems for future crewed or un-crewed exploration missions beyond low Earth orbit. The ability to store and transfer cryogenic propellant in space will also enable the reuse of in-space propulsion stages, reducing the number of launches required for future exploration missions.
More »Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
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Glenn Research Center (GRC) | Lead Organization | NASA Center | Cleveland, Ohio |
Ames Research Center (ARC) | Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Moffett Field, California |
Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) | Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Greenbelt, Maryland |
Kennedy Space Center (KSC) | Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Kennedy Space Center, Florida |
Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) | Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Huntsville, Alabama |