MATRIX presents propellant-gauging models for IM-3

The MATRIX team developed computational models to estimate propellant-gauging windows for Intuitive Machines' IM-3 mission. The work was presented at the SEES Annual Symposium and the Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium Annual Conference, and it is scheduled for presentation at the American Geophysical Union Annual Meeting.

The SEES Internship Program assigns 11th and 12th grade students to mission-focused research teams.

The MATRIX team worked on measuring propellant mass in microgravity, developed models for reliable MPG readings, used publicly available sources, and wrote an algorithm to reconstruct the IM-3 trajectory.

Modal Propellant Gauging was developed at Carthage College in Kenosha, WI, and uses the acoustic response of propellant tanks. It has been used in several spaceflight experiments and is scheduled for demonstration on IM-3.

The method provided reliable readings during LOI and Powered Descent. The associated orbit is Descent Orbit Insertion, and the spacecraft's starting mass has the greatest effect on gauging window duration.

Trajectory records for IM-1 and IM-2 came from the Navigation and Ancillary Information Facility. Engine burns and velocity changes were identified for the IM-2 spacecraft, while the IM-3 trajectory is not public.

CFD simulations estimated slosh dynamics, and Monte Carlo simulations predicted propellant states. The MATRIX team briefed Intuitive Machines' propulsion group, and a landing analysis was produced for the Reiner Gamma site.

Trinity's lunar touchdown is dated 2027, and its landing site is the Reiner Gamma region.

Dr. Kevin M. Crosby is listed as Project Mentor and is associated with Carthage College.

The work addresses propellant mass measurement in microgravity, and Modal Propellant Gauging is scheduled for demonstration on IM-3. The method is associated with reliable readings during LOI and Powered Descent.

For readers tracking Intuitive Machines, the work shows how public trajectory records can be used while IM-3's own trajectory is not public. The team also briefed Intuitive Machines' propulsion group.

Modal Propellant Gauging is scheduled for demonstration on IM-3.

The MATRIX team will present at the American Geophysical Union Annual Meeting in San Francisco in 2026-12.