EXTRATERRESTRIAL MATERIALS PROCESSING AND RELATED TRANSPORT PHENOMENA

Several concepts for significant cost reductions in space missions through extraterrestrial resource utilization are described. After an introduction of the desirability of in-situ resource utilization, several candidate chemical processes are mentioned. An important aspect of space processing is that reliability and self-repairability are mandatory; automation aspects are discussed. In addition, the paper includes several specific processes that vary from solid electrolytic production of oxygen from carbon dioxide, to plasma-augmented reactions for reducing ilmenite on the moon. It is brought out that many of the key processes require fluid dynamics and heat transfer processes under reduced- and microgravity. These aspects are discussed within the broad frame-work of two-phase thermal control systems. Predictions of the frictional pressure drop and flow boiling heat transfer under microgravity conditions are presented.