Megawatt and Beyond, NASA's Electrified Aircraft Propulsion

Since 2014 NASA has been investing in megawatt (MW) scale electrified aircraft propulsion (EAP). The efforts started with validating the theory that there is benefit in electrification of a transport class aircraft’s propulsion system, and included developing vision vehicles, setting metrics, identifying, and developing key components. Once the concept was validated, work began to elevate the technology to the point of being capable to be used in a flight demonstration system. Three tall poles identified in this development effort were megawatt-scale components capable of operating at altitude, fault management and thermal systems. To that end NASA engaged in further development of components, thermal system development, propulsion controls and upgraded the NASA Electric Aircraft Testbed (NEAT) to test complete multi-MW electrical systems at airplane altitude conditions. This work just wrapped up in 2024 and has had a significant impact on the NASA Electrified Powertrain Demonstrator (EPFD) Project. This impact was achieved though altitude testing of systems and raising the technology readiness level of important components. Recently NASA launched a new effort called High power EAP that focuses on technologies which enable 10+ MW EAP systems. Once again NASA finds itself delving into development of future aircraft concepts and performing early technology development. These efforts will attempt to answer key questions regarding superconducting technology’s readiness to contribute to EAP. NASA has long had an interest in this technology which was included in several early concept vehicles. However, there are significant hurdles to overcome, especially in the development of superconducting electric machines, and the new challenge area will address these head on.