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Author: David Buden Publisher: ISBN: 9780974144320 Category : Science Languages : en Pages : 161
Book Description
For operating in severe environments, long life and reliability, radioisotope power systems have proven to be the most successful of all space power sources. Two Voyager missions launched in 1977 to study Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and their satellites, rings and magnetic fields and continuing to the heliosphere region are still functioning over thirty years later. Radioisotope power systems have been used on the Moon, exploring the planets, and exiting our solar system. There success is a tribute to the outstanding engineering, quality control and attention to details that went into the design and production of radioisotope power generation units. Space nuclear radioisotope systems take the form of using the thermal energy from the decay of radioisotopes and converting this energy to electric power. Reliability and safety are of prime importance. Mission success depends on the ability of being able to safely launch the systems and on having sufficient electrical power over the life of the mission. Graceful power degradation over the life of a mission is acceptable as long as it is within predictable limits. Electrical power conversion systems with inherent redundancy, such as thermoelectric conversion systems, have been favored to date. Also, radioactive decay heat has been used to maintain temperatures in spacecraft at acceptable conditions for other components. This book describes how radioisotope systems work, the requirements and safety design considerations, the various systems that have been developed, and their operational history.
Author: David Buden Publisher: ISBN: 9780974144320 Category : Science Languages : en Pages : 161
Book Description
For operating in severe environments, long life and reliability, radioisotope power systems have proven to be the most successful of all space power sources. Two Voyager missions launched in 1977 to study Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and their satellites, rings and magnetic fields and continuing to the heliosphere region are still functioning over thirty years later. Radioisotope power systems have been used on the Moon, exploring the planets, and exiting our solar system. There success is a tribute to the outstanding engineering, quality control and attention to details that went into the design and production of radioisotope power generation units. Space nuclear radioisotope systems take the form of using the thermal energy from the decay of radioisotopes and converting this energy to electric power. Reliability and safety are of prime importance. Mission success depends on the ability of being able to safely launch the systems and on having sufficient electrical power over the life of the mission. Graceful power degradation over the life of a mission is acceptable as long as it is within predictable limits. Electrical power conversion systems with inherent redundancy, such as thermoelectric conversion systems, have been favored to date. Also, radioactive decay heat has been used to maintain temperatures in spacecraft at acceptable conditions for other components. This book describes how radioisotope systems work, the requirements and safety design considerations, the various systems that have been developed, and their operational history.
Author: National Research Council Publisher: National Academies Press ISBN: 0309141761 Category : Science Languages : en Pages : 69
Book Description
Spacecraft require electrical energy. This energy must be available in the outer reaches of the solar system where sunlight is very faint. It must be available through lunar nights that last for 14 days, through long periods of dark and cold at the higher latitudes on Mars, and in high-radiation fields such as those around Jupiter. Radioisotope power systems (RPSs) are the only available power source that can operate unconstrained in these environments for the long periods of time needed to accomplish many missions, and plutonium-238 (238Pu) is the only practical isotope for fueling them. Plutonium-238 does not occur in nature. The committee does not believe that there is any additional 238Pu (or any operational 238Pu production facilities) available anywhere in the world.The total amount of 238Pu available for NASA is fixed, and essentially all of it is already dedicated to support several pending missions-the Mars Science Laboratory, Discovery 12, the Outer Planets Flagship 1 (OPF 1), and (perhaps) a small number of additional missions with a very small demand for 238Pu. If the status quo persists, the United States will not be able to provide RPSs for any subsequent missions.
Author: Bahram Nassersharif, PH D Publisher: Independently Published ISBN: Category : Technology & Engineering Languages : en Pages : 0
Book Description
Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power: Principles, Systems, and Applications Unlock the Future of Space Exploration Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power: Principles, Systems, and Applications is a vital text for students, practitioners, and industry professionals, offering a deep exploration of space nuclear propulsion and power systems. This extensive guide provides essential knowledge for understanding and advancing technologies that will propel humanity into space. In-depth Coverage of Cutting-Edge Technologies This book examines various propulsion systems, including chemical and nuclear thermal propulsion. It details the fundamentals of rocket propulsion, combustion dynamics, nozzle design, and critical calculations. Readers gain insights into practical considerations, such as high-speed exhaust gas generation and efficiency optimization. Advanced Mathematical Formulations and Real-World Examples To ensure practical application, the book includes real-world examples and detailed mathematical formulations, such as the Tsiolkovsky rocket equation, nuclear fission, radioactivity, and neutronics. These examples help readers understand and apply principles to their studies in space nuclear systems. The structured approach, combining theory with practical examples, makes complex concepts accessible and engaging. Innovative Power Solutions for Space Missions Beyond propulsion, the book explores radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) and nuclear reactors for powering spacecraft and lunar bases. RTGs, converting heat from radioisotope decay into electricity, have powered missions like Voyager, Cassini, and New Horizons. Nuclear reactors offer high power levels for propulsion and power generation, with detailed coverage of Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) and Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP). NTP systems use a nuclear reactor to heat hydrogen, producing thrust, while NEP systems generate electricity to power electric thrusters, ideal for deep space missions. Powering Lunar Bases and Mars Missions Nuclear technologies extend beyond space travel to lunar and Mars missions. Nuclear reactors provide robust power sources for habitats, scientific experiments, and resource extraction on the Moon and Mars. These environments make solar power less viable, especially for long-duration missions. Nuclear power supports life support systems, communication, and mobility, offering sustainable energy where sunlight is insufficient. Inspiration for Future Innovators Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power is more than a textbook; it challenges readers to think critically about the future of space exploration and the role of nuclear technology. Emphasizing theory and practice integration, the book inspires curiosity and innovation, encouraging contributions to ongoing design and development in this fascinating field. Join the Journey to the Stars Whether you are a student or a seasoned professional, Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power offers valuable insights and guidance. Engage with the material, challenge presented concepts, and join the community advancing technologies that will shape space exploration's future and our understanding of the universe. Embrace the journey into the unknown and unlock the potential of space nuclear propulsion and power with this definitive text. Welcome to an exploration of technologies propelling humanity to the stars.
Author: National Ae Space Administration (Nasa) Publisher: Independently Published ISBN: 9781096195054 Category : Languages : en Pages : 284
Book Description
This unique book reproduces important government documents, reports, and studies dealing with spaceflight nuclear power and propulsion technologies, including Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs), Plutonium-238 production, NASA Kilopower Fission Reactor (KRUSTY) and nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) rockets for human Moon and Mars exploration.Contents include: Overview of Space Radioisotope Power Systems and RTGs * Advanced Radioisotope Power System Concepts and Designs * Energy Department and Plutonium Production * Space Exploration - DOE Could Improve Planning and Communication Related to Plutonium-238 and Radioisotope Power Systems Production Challenges * Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) * NASA's Kilopower Fission Reactor Program and KRUSTYRadioisotope Thermoelectric Generators, or RTGs, provide electrical power for spacecraft by converting the heat generated by the decay of plutonium-238 (Pu-238) fuel into electricity using devices called thermocouples. Since they have no moving parts that can fail or wear out, RTGs have historically been viewed as a highly reliable power option. Thermocouples have been used in RTGs for a total combined time of over 300 years, and a not a single thermocouple has ever ceased producing power. Thermocouples are common in everyday items that must monitor or regulate their temperature, such as air conditioners, refrigerators and medical thermometers. The principle of a thermocouple involves two plates, each made of a different metal that conducts electricity. Joining these two plates to form a closed electrical circuit while keeping the two junctions at different temperatures produces an electric current. Each of these pairs of junctions forms an individual thermocouple. In an RTG, the radioisotope fuel heats one of these junctions while the other junction remains unheated and is cooled by the space environment or a planetary atmosphere.Benefits of NTP propulsion include: For human Mars missions, first generation NTP can reduce crew time away from earth from greater than 900 days to less than 500 days while still allowing ample time for surface exploration; reduce crew exposure to space radiation, microgravity, other hazards; can enable abort modes not available with other architectures including the potential to return to earth anytime within 3 months of earth departure burn, also to return immediately upon arrival at Mars; and stage/habitat optimized for use with NTP could further reduce crew exposure to cosmic rays and provide shielding against any conceivable solar flare.
Author: International Atomic Energy Agency Publisher: IAEA ISBN: Category : Business & Economics Languages : en Pages : 152
Book Description
Provides details of a variety of radioisotope power systems, shows in what circumstances they surpass other power systems, and provides the history of the space missions in which they have been employed. The book also summarizes the use of on-board reactors and the testing done on reactor rocket thrusters.
Author: Publisher: ISBN: Category : Languages : en Pages :
Book Description
Reliable, long-life power systems are required for ambitious space exploration missions. Nuclear power and propulsion options can enable a bold, new set of missions and introduce propulsion capabilities to achieve access to science destinations that are not possible with more conventional systems. Space nuclear power options can be divided into three main categories: radioisotope power for heating or low power applications; fission power systems for non-terrestrial surface application or for spacecraft power; and fission power systems for electric propulsion or direct thermal propulsion. Each of these areas has been investigated in the United States since the 1950s, achieving various stages of development. While some nuclear systems have achieved flight deployment, others continue to be researched today. This paper will provide a brief overview of historical space nuclear programs in the U.S. and will provide a summary of the ongoing space nuclear systems research, development, and deployment in the United States.
Author: Nirmal Singh Publisher: IntechOpen ISBN: 9789533075105 Category : Science Languages : en Pages : 510
Book Description
The book Radioisotopes - Applications in Physical Sciences is divided into three sections namely: Radioisotopes and Some Physical Aspects, Radioisotopes in Environment and Radioisotopes in Power System Space Applications. Section I contains nine chapters on radioisotopes and production and their various applications in some physical and chemical processes. In Section II, ten chapters on the applications of radioisotopes in environment have been added. The interesting articles related to soil, water, environmental dosimetry/tracer and composition analyzer etc. are worth reading. Section III has three chapters on the use of radioisotopes in power systems which generate electrical power by converting heat released from the nuclear decay of radioactive isotopes. The system has to be flown in space for space exploration and radioisotopes can be a good alternative for heat-to-electrical energy conversion. The reader will very much benefit from the chapters presented in this section.
Author: United States. Congress. House. Committee on Science and Technology. Subcommittee on Energy Research and Production Publisher: ISBN: Category : Nuclear power plants Languages : en Pages : 20
Author: David Buden
Author: David Buden
Author: National Research Council
Author: Bahram Nassersharif, PH D
Author: National Ae Space Administration (Nasa)
Author: International Atomic Energy Agency
Author: James R. Bates
Author: 
Author: Mohamed S. El-Genk
Author: Nirmal Singh
Author: United States. Congress. House. Committee on Science and Technology. Subcommittee on Energy Research and Production