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As part of the Sustaining Engineering program for the International Space Station (ISS), a ground simulator of the Internal Thermal Control System (ITCS) in the Lab Module was designed and built at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). To predict ITCS performance and address flight issues, this facility is operationally and functionally similar to the flight system and flight-like components were used when available. Flight software algorithms, implemented using the LabVIEW® programming language, were used for monitoring performance and controlling operation. Validation testing of the low temperature loop was completed prior to activation of the Lab module in 2001. Assembly of the moderate temperature loop was completed in 2002 and it was validated in 2003. Even before complete validation the facility was used to address flight issues, successfully demonstrating the ability to add silver biocide and to adjust the pH of the coolant.

Since 1984 Eagle-Picher Ind., Inc. has provided hardware and technical support to the budding solar vehicle industry. The batteries are used in the solar vehicles to provide storage of the electrical energy from the solar cells for use during brief periods when the power requirements exceed the capability of the solar cells, such as hill climbing, passing, or low sun conditions. Though the early development of these vehicles has focused on races which place emphasis on both speed and endurance, the ultimate goal is a commercial vehicle which will reduce the consumption of fossil fuels for transportation. Eagle-Picher Industries silver-oxide zinc system has proven ideal for use in this development phase because of their high energy density and reliability.