Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully tested 100 W class Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell based Power System (FCPS) in its orbital platform, POEM3. This remarkable achievement occurred on the PSLV-C58 mission, which is an important step in the evaluation of fuel cell technology for future space missions.
The objective of the experiment was to assess polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. To collect data to facilitate operations in space and the design of systems for future missions. During short-term testing aboard the POEM ship, 180 W of power was generated from hydrogen and oxygen gases stored onboard in high-pressure vessels. It provided abundant data on the performance of various static and dynamic systems that were part of electrical systems and physics.
Hydrogen fuel cell
The hydrogen fuel cells employed in FCPS have the unique ability to produce electricity directly from hydrogen and oxygen gases. Unlike conventional generators that rely on combustion reactions, fuel cells operate on the same electrochemical principles as batteries. This direct conversion process makes them highly efficient, emissions-free and ideal for space missions where electricity, water and heat are essential.
Fuel cells also have important societal application potential. They are also considered to be the most suitable solution for replacing engines and powering standby power systems of a wide variety of vehicle types in use today. Fuel cells can provide range and fuel recharge times comparable to today's conventional engines, giving them a distinct advantage over batteries, and are expected to facilitate emission-free transportation. The fuel cell is the ideal energy source for the space station because it provides both electricity and purified water.
Mission Achievements: XPoSat and POEM-3
The successful launch of the PSLV-C58 mission also included the X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) mission. Along with this, the POEM-3 experiment aims to fulfill the objectives of ten other payloads developed by various ISRO centres, including start-ups, academic institutions and FCPS.