Thermal Management System for Cooled Windows

Seeker performance is limited by the infrared window’s ability to survive and image in a high-Mach, endo-atmospheric environment. Window materials primarily fail because of thermal shock, but can also experience issues due to absorption/emission at elevated temperature and material decomposition. Internally cooled windows can be used to improve the optical and thermo-structural performance of infrared windows in a hypersonic environment. However, these windows require a thermal management system that delivers coolant to the window and frame. For this effort, Mainstream will design and build a flight-optimized thermal management system that can be paired with internally cooled windows. We will fabricate and assemble all components for the thermal management system and demonstrate its performance in a simulated hypersonic environment. At the completion of this effort, Mainstream will have a complete thermal management solution for operation of an internally cooled window on a hypersonic vehicle. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22)