The AMPES system, a product of Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc., is a modular setup utilizing the company's patented non-flow through, air-independent fuel cell technology. This innovative system is not only scalable but also capable of powering a variety of space equipment, including landers, rovers, and habitats on celestial bodies such as the moon or Mars.
Infinity's CEO, William Smith, expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, "To my knowledge this is the first fuel cell to fly in space since Shuttle Orbiter was retired in 2011. The USA is back in space with fuel cells!" This enthusiasm was echoed by Max Aronow, Infinity's Principal Engineer overseeing the Tipping Point Program, who acknowledged the collective effort of the Infinity team in bringing this project to fruition.
The success of the AMPES system in the demanding conditions of space is a testament to its robust design. The fuel cell demonstrated its capability to generate the required power throughout the entire flight, including during the 3 minutes of microgravity. This resilience was critical in meeting the stringent requirements set by Blue Origin and NASA, including absorbing its own waste heat, providing its own load and power sources, remote startup, automatic operation, and passing rigorous EMI, shock, vibration, and T-Vac testing. All these feats were accomplished while adhering to strict mass and volume constraints.
The recent launch not only showcases the potential of Infinity's fuel cell technology in space exploration but also represents a collaborative triumph between Infinity, NASA, and Blue Origin. This mission stands as a pivotal step in advancing space technology, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient power sources in space exploration endeavors.
Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc.'s Tipping Point Fuel Cell's second voyage on Blue Origin's New Shepard NS-24 launch demonstrates the growing synergy between private space companies and governmental space agencies in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in space exploration and technology.
