N.A.S.A. Space Applications of High-Temperature Superconductors

The application of superconducting technology in space has been limited by the requirement of cooling to near liquid helium temperatures. The only means of attaining these temperatures has been with cryogenic fluids which severely limits mission lifetime. The development of materials with superconducting transition temperatures (Tc) above 77 K has made superconducting technology more attractive and feasible for employment in aerospace systems. In this paper, potential applications of high-temperature superconducting technology in cryocoolers and remote sensing, communications and power systems will be discussed.