cryogenics
/ˌkraɪ.oʊˈdʒɛn.ɪks/
Definition
The branch of physics and engineering that deals with the production and effects of very low temperatures.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'kryos' (meaning 'frost' or 'cold') and 'genos' (meaning 'producing'). It entered modern English in the 20th century to describe the growing technological application of extreme refrigeration.
In the news
Although the provided text mentions exploring extreme environments like Venus, cryogenics specifically refers to the technologies used for cooling systems and hardware that function in the vacuum and extreme cold of space. It is a vital field for NASA missions involving thermal management of sensitive scientific instruments.
Northwest Earth and Space Science Pathways Project Celebrates Student Innovation Through ROADS from Earth to Venus National Challenge
Read the full article ↗NASA Science (.gov)