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Texas A&M Develops 3D-Printed Heat Shield for NASA

5/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Texas A&M University and Canopy Aerospace are pioneering a groundbreaking 3D-printed heat shield for NASA's Orion capsule, utilizing transpiration cooling to allow the spacecraft to "sweat" coolant gas. This revolutionary approach not only boosts reusability but also promises enhanced safety. Prototypes are now undergoing rigorous testing to assess their cooling performance during reentry.

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Story summary

Texas A&M University and Canopy Aerospace are pioneering a groundbreaking 3D-printed heat shield for NASA's Orion capsule, utilizing transpiration cooling to allow the spacecraft to "sweat" coolant gas. This revolutionary approach not only boosts reusability but also promises enhanced safety. Prototypes are now undergoing rigorous testing to assess their cooling performance during reentry.