Cryogenic Hydrogen Studies and Testing for Advanced Aircraft at NASA

NASA aeronautics goals include pioneering new technology to increase efficiency, reduce emissions, noise, and carbon footprint from air travel. The feasibility of using fuel cells and on-board cryogenic hydrogen systems in combination with electric motors for high efficiency zero emission commercial transport aircraft is being examined at NASA in collaborations with external partners Growing emphasis on next generation air transportation resulted in the development of strategic programs on hydrogen aviation, including developing new capabilities at the airports, expansion of hydrogen infrastructure, and fuel cells manufacturing. NASA cross-organizational multidisciplinary project team is exploring new aircraft architecture, advanced material science, and engineering of high performance cryogenic, thermal management and fuel cell systems components and subsystems to tackle the challenging problem of development of commercially viable mid-size aircraft that would radically transform air transportation. Cryogenic hydrogen testing and development of relevant components and storage systems remain an essential part of this project.