Carl Kirkconnell, Ph.D., P.E

Carl Kirkconnell, Ph.D., P.E. Senior Fellow MOEC / ACT Advanced EO Raytheon SAS

Dr. Carl Kirkconnell is an internationally recognized expert in cryogenics and thermodynamic optimization of space systems. Currently, he is the designated lead for Raytheon Space Cryocooler technology. In this capacity, Kirkconnell leads all major initiatives within this technology field. His responsibilities include the manufacture of long-life cryocoolers, the development of a high capacity Stirling/pulse tube hybrid cryocoolers for AFRL, advanced product development, and cryocooler selection and integration for next generation payloads.

Kirkconnell has sixteen years experience at Hughes/Raytheon working with Stirling, pulse tube, Joule- Thompson, Gifford-McMahon and various hybrid cryocooler systems. He holds eight patents and has published over 40 papers in thermal management and cryogenics. Relevant past experience includes his work as the lead track sensor thermal engineer on SBIRS Low FDS. He was also the lead cryogenics engineer and thermal system designer for the Joule-Thompson cryogenic cooling system on the Exo-Atmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV). More recently, he served as Technical Director for two mission critical programs, a Stirling cryocooler production program and the experimental demonstration of a 2-stage turbo Brayton cryocooler.

Kirkconnell, a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of California, received a doctorate in mechanical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1995.