Space power requirements in the 0.1–10 kw regime are imminent. Radioisotope power subsystems potentially satisfy these requirements. This paper examines the technical advancements necessary to realize the potential utility of radioisotope power subsystems.Isotope heat source and conversion devices are considered. A survey of isotope production costs and rates is presented. Isotope heat source, cladding compatibility, and operational safety requirements are reviewed. The performance of the Brayton (argon) and Rankine (mercury and Dowtherm “A”) cycles is outlined. Thermoelectric and thermionic converter performance is also reviewed.
Radioisotope Power Subsystems for Space Application
Sae Technical Papers
Aeronautic and Space Engineering and Manufacturing Meeting ; 1965
1965-02-01
Conference paper
English
Radioisotope Space Power Programs
NTRS | 1984
|Advanced radioisotope space power system
Tema Archive | 1990
|AMTEC for Space Radioisotope Power Applications
NTRS | 1997
|Brayton Cycle Radioisotope Space Power System
SAE Technical Papers | 1964
|Advanced Radioisotope Thermoelectric Space Power System
SAE Technical Papers | 1965
|