Developing Oxychalcogenide Membranes for Superconducting Power Transmission
- Researchers are developing oxychalcogenide membranes for superconducting power transmission, aiming to create a cable that can operate on the Moon with low electrical losses.
- The team will use novel manufacturing techniques to grow alternating layers of FeSe SrTiO3 films onto a substrate, resulting in a superconducting tape that can be fashioned into electrical transmission lines.
- The project’s goal is to demonstrate a 1-meter-long superconducting transmission line capable of supporting 1 amp of power transmission at 1,000 volts.
- The development of this technology could enable efficient and reliable power transmission on the Moon, where extreme cold temperatures pose significant challenges for traditional electrical systems.
- The project is part of a larger effort to advance space technology research grants, with the University of Chicago leading the initiative under the Early Career Faculty program.
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Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater)
Shuolong Yang
University of Chicago
This effort will leverage the latest developments in superconductors to build a power transmission cable that can operate in the extreme cold temperatures found on the Moon with very low electrical losses. The team will use novel manufacturing techniques to grow alternating layers of FeSe SrTiO3 films onto a substrate and the resulting, superconducting tape can be fashioned into electrical transmission lines. The project will culminate with a demonstration 1-meter-long superconducting transmission line which supports 1 amp of power transmission at 1,000 volts.
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Last Updated
Apr 18, 2025
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Loura Hall
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Q. What is the main goal of this project?
A. The main goal of this project is to develop a power transmission cable that can operate in extreme cold temperatures found on the Moon with low electrical losses.
Q. How will the team achieve this goal?
A. The team will use novel manufacturing techniques to grow alternating layers of FeSe SrTiO3 films onto a substrate, resulting in superconducting tape that can be fashioned into electrical transmission lines.
Q. What is the expected outcome of this project?
A. The project aims to culminate with a demonstration of a 1-meter-long superconducting transmission line that supports 1 amp of power transmission at 1,000 volts.
Q. Why is this project important?
A. This project is important because it will enable the development of a power transmission cable that can operate in extreme cold temperatures found on the Moon, reducing electrical losses and increasing efficiency.
Q. What type of materials are being used in this project?
A. The team is using FeSe SrTiO3 films as the superconducting material for the transmission line.
Q. Who is leading this project?
A. Unfortunately, the text does not mention who is specifically leading this project.
Q. What is the significance of the 1-meter-long superconducting transmission line?
A. The 1-meter-long superconducting transmission line will demonstrate the feasibility of using superconductors for power transmission in extreme cold temperatures.
Q. How long will it take to complete this project?
A. Unfortunately, the text does not provide a specific timeline for completing this project.
Q. What is the potential impact of this technology on space exploration?
A. The development of superconducting power transmission cables could enable more efficient and reliable energy transmission in space, supporting future lunar missions.
Q. Is this project related to any other research or initiatives?
A. Unfortunately, the text does not provide information on whether this project is related to any other research or initiatives.