iLAuNCH declares two latest projects with energy tech company entX   

The Innovative Launch, Automation, Novel Materials, Communications and Hypersonics (iLAuNCH) Hub has reported new associations between the University of South Australia, the University of Southern Queensland and Adelaide-based energy technology company entX. 

iLAuNCH reported two projects with UniSA and entX. Focussing on the flow of nuclear power to guarantee spacecraft can survive several nights in temperatures that can reach down to – 180 °C on the dark side of the lunar surface. 

“Embarking on an exciting journey towards lunar occupation in the upcoming decades, securing a reliable source of thermal energy solutions is paramount,” said entX General Manager Defence and Space, Scott Edwards. 

A technology platform supported by the Radioisotope Heater Unit will be prototyped by entX to provide thermal management for multiple lunar night survival. The RHU will have a half-life that is more sustainable, and ideal for more limited-span missions (one to five years) for example, little payloads that will travel to the Moon on the emerging series of commercial landers. 

As an alternative to the plutonium that is typically used in RHUs, it will make use of the beta-emitting radioisotope from entX, which is described to be safer and better for the environment. 

The second project is with UniSQ, expecting to popularise long-term power sources to spacecraft where solar energy cannot be depended upon. 

“Robust RHUs and RTGs will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of lunar surface exploration, including the enigmatic dark side of the moon and the depths of lunar craters. Moreover, extending asset availability during lunar nights by leveraging advanced energy technologies creates a step change in the amounts of data collected, processed, and transmitted, leading to a maximised mission ROI,” said Edwards. 

In May of last year, as part of the Trailblazer Universities initiative, iLAuNCH received $50 million in federal funding for its four-year term and was officially launched in July of this year.