Solid Oxide Fuel Cells for Space Exploration: Enabling High-Efficiency Power Generation in Extreme Environments

Research output: Contribution to book/Conference proceedings/Anthology/ReportConference contributionContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

The necessity for reliable and efficient power generation in future space exploration missions is paramount, particularly in environments where solar energy is inadequate. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) emerge as a compelling solution, exhibiting high efficiency, fuel flexibility, and a long operational lifetime. Their capacity to function with hydrocarbons and in situ-derived fuels renders them especially well-suited for long-duration missions. This publication provides an overview of the ESA-funded SOCRATES project, which is investigating the adaptation of terrestrial SOFC technology for space applications in the frame- work of Voyage 2050 and the exploration of Saturn’s moon Enceladus.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationIAF Space Power Symposium - Held at the 76th International Astronautical Congress, IAC 2025
PublisherInternational Astronautical Federation, IAF
Pages367-375
Number of pages9
ISBN (electronic)979-8-3313-2937-2
Publication statusPublished - 2025
Peer-reviewedYes

Publication series

SeriesProceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC
ISSN0074-1795

Conference

Title76th International Astronautical Congress
SubtitleSustainable Space: Resilient Earth
Abbreviated titleIAC 2025
Conference number76
Duration29 September - 3 October 2025
Website
LocationInternational Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney)
CitySydney
CountryAustralia

External IDs

ORCID /0000-0002-7406-7588/work/201623545
ORCID /0009-0009-9925-7888/work/201624428
ORCID /0000-0002-5710-6530/work/207303820
Scopus 105033082928
ORCID /0009-0007-7963-8363/work/224897901

Keywords

Keywords

  • Enceladus, Methane, Oxygen, SOFC, Sustainability, Voyage2050