Lunar Experiment Support System and Handling (LESSH) Battery Charger Module (BCM)
Power Generation and Storage
Lunar Experiment Support System and Handling (LESSH) Battery Charger Module (BCM) (GSC-TOPS-362)
Reliable Power and Data Transfer in Harsh Environments
Overview
Innovators at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center have developed a groundbreaking extravehicular activity (EVA)-compatible Battery Charger Module (BCM) as part of the Lunar Experiment Support System and Handling (LESSH) package. This first-of-its-kind technology is designed to provide wired battery charging capabilities to astronauts on the lunar surface or other harsh environments.
With the Artemis III mission and beyond, NASA plans to deploy cutting-edge science instruments near the lunar South Pole landing site. To support extended lunar science operations, the EVA-compatible LESSH BCM offers seamless recharging and reliable hard-line data transfer at the modular interface bank on the Human Landing System (HLS) or other Artemis systems (rovers, vehicles, habitats, etc.). Engineered for astronaut ease-of-use, the LESSH BCM delivers an ergonomic interface to connect instruments to power and data systems. By combining battery charge monitoring with flexible data transfer capabilities, the BCM empowers astronauts to extend the scope and duration of operations on the Moon. The NASA invention is integral to creating a recharging infrastructure that enables sustainable, long-term lunar exploration.
The Technology
NASA’s LESSH BCM is a compact, high-performance, ruggedized system designed to support extended science operations in harsh lunar environments. With a mass of 9.4 kg and dimensions of 50 x 25 x 10 cm, the BCM is engineered for seamless integration with the interface bank on the HLS. A 1.5-meter flexible harness with an EVA-compatible connector and removable dust cover enables reliable operation in austere environments. Astronaut-operated controls, such as a guarded power switch and LED indicators, simplify usability and reduce the potential for errors during high-stakes lunar operations.
The BCM is optimized for safety and efficiency, incorporating state-of-the-art power and charging capabilities. It supports charging of 28V astronaut-rated batteries with a power output rated at 215W and integrates a battery pre-heater to maintain optimal performance in extreme temperatures. The BCM features a 4-hour charge time with software adjustability for charging parameters such as current, voltage, overvoltage, and undervoltage setpoints. Battery longevity is ensured through passive rebalancing of cell voltages and advanced safety features. Its 2-fault tolerant hardware and adjustable safety setpoints safeguard against potential hazards. Additionally, the BCM supports 1000BASE-T Ethernet pass-through for high-speed data transfer.
Originally designed to extend the length of lunar surface science experiments by enabling astronauts to recharge instrumentation, NASA’s LESSH BCM may be desired by companies seeking to operate sensors on the lunar or Martian lunar surface. The design may also be suitable for terrestrial applications involving harsh environments where interchangeable sealed sensors must operate on their own or with rovers, robotics, and drones. The BCM is at technology readiness level (TRL) 4 (component and/or breadboard validation in lab) and is available for patent licensing.
Benefits
- Flexible and modular: Compatible with multiple lunar systems, including HLS, Orion, Gateway, surface habitats, and rovers.
- Robust: Safety features, rugged connectors, and advanced thermal management ensure reliable performance in harsh lunar conditions.
- Enhanced usability: EVA-compatible interface with dust cover and LED indicators ensures operability in extreme environments.
- Fast charging: NASA's LESSH BCM takes 4 hours from 0-100% state of charge.
- Data transfer capabilities: Integrated 16Gbps Ethernet enables high-speed data transmission.
Applications
- Lunar missions: Supports science instruments and power systems for Artemis lunar exploration and EVA operations.
- Surface exploration: Provides extended power and data for rovers, habitats, sensors, and other surface assets.
- Hazardous environments: Power and data transfer for sensors or instruments used in mining, oil and gas exploration, and nuclear power facilities where human access is limited.
- Defense: Ruggedized power and data solutions for field-deployed sensors, drones, and equipment in extreme operational environments or where PPE is required.
Technology Details
Power Generation and Storage
GSC-TOPS-362
GSC-19349-1
"LESSH Lunar Experiment Support System and Handling Battery Charger Module," https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/20240004501
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