Cryogenics

Airbus is working on a number of hydrogen-powered aircraft, and it's just found a new angle on cryogenic liquid H2 fuel: using it to supercool the powertrain down to superconducting temperatures, possibly unlocking huge weight and efficiency savings.

Some advanced electronic devices only function at extremely cold temperatures. Now engineers at NIST have developed a tiny cryogenic thermometer that uses a new mechanism to keep an eye on these sensitive instruments without taking up much room.

Lockheed Martin’s High Power Microcryocooler is designed to keep satellite sensors cold, yet it's the lightest in its class and three times the power density of previous systems.

A new zero-emissions engine capable of competing with battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell systems appeared on the radar yesterday when respected engineering consultancy Ricardo validated the Dearman engine and its commercial potential.