Supercooling to Boost Payload Capacity and Mission Performance

Supercooling LOX with LIN

Liquid oxygen (LOX) is one of the most widely used oxidizers in spacecraft propulsion systems. However, LOX has a relatively low density at standard cryogenic temperatures, which limits the mass of oxidizer that can be loaded into a spacecraft's tank. Liquid nitrogen (LIN) can be used to overcome this challenge by subcooling (also known as supercooling) the LOX. Chilling LOX to temperatures well below its normal boiling point increases its density, allowing more oxidizer mass to be stored in the same tank volume.

In addition to increasing total propellant mass carried by the same tank capacity, densified LOX remains stable and less prone to boil-off during handling and loading. This improves operational efficiency and reduces propellant losses.

Our experts can advise on LIN subcooling solutions with the potential for efficiency gains with lower boil-off losses by delivering subcooled, densified LOX.