This facility – a high-flux solar simulator – is ideally suited for laboratory-scale testing of high-temperature solar thermal and thermochemical components and systems.

It supports basic research in radiating reactive flows and provides up to 20 kW of radiation with peak heat flux up to about 10 MW/m2. The flux can be further augmented by applying secondary optics.

The solar thermal capability and expertise at ANU can be easily expanded to simulate similar heat flux conditions for high-speed entry (e.g., Moon, Mars and beyond). 

For more information, please contact the National Space Test Facility at NSTF@anu.edu.au.