Hybrid 10 K cryocooler for space applications

Ball Aerospace is combining its flight proven Joule-Thomson (J-T) and Stirling cryocooler technologies to create an efficient, low-mass, and reliable 10 K cryocooler. The hybrid machine consists of an enhanced J-T cooling stage coupled to a split Stirling precooler. The J-T loop incorporates a low-pressure compressor to provide cooling at the sensor interface and a thermal capacitor to provide peak load cooling capacity. The J-T loop is precooled by a modified version of a previously developed three-stage Stirling cryocooler. This paper describes the concept, shows system-level estimates for mass and power, and presents related test data.