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Development of an engineering model of Regenerative fuel cell system for power generation on Mars

Contact

Ivar Wærnhus

Senior Researcher - Fantoft

ivar@norceresearch.no
+47 56 10 77 93
+47 930 02 476

Powering Mars Missions with Local Resources

This ESA project is developing a new energy system that can produce electricity on Mars using only the planet’s own atmosphere. The system is based on a technology called Regenerative Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (RSOFCs), which splits carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the Martian air into carbon monoxide and oxygen. These gases are stored and later used to generate electricity—creating a smart, closed loop.

The goal is to build and test a prototype that’s tough enough for Mars, especially during long missions. A key challenge is preventing carbon buildup inside the system, and the project will explore two strategies: avoiding carbon completely, or safely collecting it.

The end result will be a tested, efficient power system that helps future astronauts or robots work on Mars without needing fuel from Earth.

Project facts

Status

Active

Duration

01.01.19 - 01.06.25

Location

Bergen

Total budget

8.000.000 NOK

Prosjekteier

NORCE

Funding

ESA - European Space Agency

Contact

Ivar Wærnhus

Senior Researcher - Fantoft

ivar@norceresearch.no
+47 56 10 77 93
+47 930 02 476

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