of different heating and cooling surfaces will be tested and both fundamental TES configurations can be simulated in reduced gravity. Real time transmissivity measurements for both wavelength ranges of interest—solar and infrared—are planned to investigate the influence of radiation on the heat transfer in the PCM. Expected Results In the described spacelab experiment all relevant microgravity-induced phenomena can be investigated. Phase change convection, the PCM/void distribution and the PCM transmissivity will be emphasized and qualitatively evaluated. Wetting and spreading properties can be observed directly if the PCM containers are transparent, which is also necessary for the transmissivity measurements. Contaminated or pre-corroded PCM containers could be used to investigate the influence of having no sedimentation. As mentioned before this phenomenon is probably not of prior importance. This spacelab experiment will give a sound basis for the TES development. The
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTU5NjU0Mg==