Abstract: A storage system that includes a contents container and a thermal battery, each in thermal communication with a thermal moderator that is constructed and arranged to balance the thermal energy flow between the contents container and the environment with the thermal energy flow between the contents container and the thermal battery. The thermal moderator can include a super-insulating material, a phase change material and/or a heat pipe. The storage system may help to maintain stored contents within a desired temperature range for an extended period of time, while minimizing the likelihood of damage to the contents due to an initial temperature of the thermal battery being outside of the desired temperature range.

Abstract: A storage container that includes walls having complimentary-shaped edges with complex edge profiles. The complex edge profiles of adjoining walls mate with each other to form an interface that defines a thermal leak path between a storage area of the container and an exterior environment. The thermal leak path has a length that is greater than the thickness of the adjoined walls. In one example, the complex edge profile includes step-shaped features. The walls may also include one or more overlapping super-insulating panels. The panels may be joined to one another with adhesive layers. The super-insulating panels may be also be disposed in a wall including interior and exterior linings that are joined and sealed to define a space between the linings. The space may be evacuated and optionally filled with a super-insulating gas.