EXPLORE Concept

EXPLORE simulates the refueling process under microgravity conditions, i.e. a homogenous and maximized fill level on the receiver tank shall be achieved while varying the mass flow distribution. At the same time, the filling process itself will be recorded and analyzed.

The experiment will be installed in a payload compartment of the REXUS rocket. It comprises the refueling system, the control and measurement electronics, and the structural mounting. The overall mass of the experiment is about 10 kg.

 In the refueling system, a central gas pressure tank pressurizes two identical liquid tanks, which again distribute the liquid fuel to the test chambers through mass flow controllers and adequate valves and tubing. The velocity of the fill process is varied as the major parameter for investigation.

 The electronic subsystem comprises a microcontroller, which controls the regulators and valves of the refueling system on the one hand, but which also captures and stores all sensor data. Throughout the experiment, pressure, temperature and video data is recorded to characterize the fill process.

 In realizing the EXPLORE project, we emphasize the cooperation with non-space-specialized industry to minimize cost and complexity of the hardware. Also, if allows to accentuate the outreach aspects of the student experiment.