TEMPUS
Crucible-free electromagnetic processing under zero gravity (TEMPUS) is a Spacelab system for the electromagnetic (inductive), crucible-free processing of metallic samples. The concept and specifications of the current Spacelab version of TEMPUS were developed according to the specifications of the Institute for Space Simulation. The basis for this is the scientific work in the fields of undercooling of metallic melts and thermophysics, as well as the technical experience in the field of electromagnetic levitation.
During the Spacelab missions IML-2, MSL-1 and MSL-1R, numerous experiments were carried out by German and American research groups.
A comprehensive ground support and preparation programme is necessary for the scientific success of space experiments. A significant part of this work is carried out at the German User Centre for Space Experiments (MUSC). To this end, a TEMPUS breadboard and a flight-like development model were made available at MUSC and the following tasks were carried out as part of the user support programme:
- Experiment feasibility studies
- Determination of sample characteristics
- Development of software solutions for users
- Definition of experiment parameters
- Mission support and telescience
A further developed system "Advanced TEMPUS" is planned as a national contribution for the International Space Station (ISS) in a multinational "Laboratory for Contactless Experiments" (Containerless Processing Lab).