A Capillary Pump Loop Cooling System for the Nicmos Instrument

Document Number: 981814

Date Published: July 1998

Author(s):
Roy McIntosh - Swales Aerospace
Marc Kaylor - Swales Aerospace
Matthew T. Buchko - Swales Aerospace
Edward Kroliczek - Swales Aerospace

Abstract:
The Near Infrared Camera and Multi Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) was installed in the Hubble Space Telescope in February 1997. Shortly thereafter, the instrument experienced a thermal short in its solid nitrogen dewar system which will shorten its useful life significantly. A reverse Barton cycle mechanical refrigerator will be installed during the third servicing mission (SM3) to provide cooling for the instrument, and thereby extend its life. A Capillary Pump Loop (CPL) and radiator system has been designed, built and tested to remove up to 500 watts of heat from the mechanical cooler and its electronics. This paper will describe the CPL system in detail and present the results of the extensive testing and qualification program.

File Size: 296K
Product Status: In Stock

See other papers presented at International Conference On Environmental Systems, July 1998, Danvers, MA, USA, Session: Spacecraft and Instrument Thermal Design and Technology

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