Top Highlights
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Powering Deep Space Exploration: NASA’s radioisotope power systems (RPS), used for over 60 years in missions like Voyager and Perseverance, are vital for providing long-term electrical power to spacecraft through radioactive decay heat.
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New Fuel Source Under Testing: A collaboration between NASA and the University of Leicester is testing americium-241 as a potential alternative heat source for RPS, following decades of reliance on plutonium-238.
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Innovative Generator Design: The free-piston Stirling convertor, capable of operating for decades without wear, promises to enhance energy generation for deep space missions and has successfully demonstrated reliable operation in testing.
- Promising Test Results: The recent tests affirmed the efficiency and robustness of the americium-fueled Stirling RPS, paving the way for further advancements in design and environmental resilience for future spaceflight missions.
NASA Tests New Heat Source Fuel for Deep Space Exploration
NASA continues to pave the way for deep space exploration with a promising new heat source fuel. This advancement is vital for long-duration missions millions of miles from Earth. For over 60 years, NASA has relied on radioisotope power systems (RPS), which provide essential electrical power for spacecraft like the Voyager probes and the Perseverance Mars rover. These systems harness heat from the natural decay of radioactive isotopes.
Recently, NASA embarked on testing americium-241 as a potential alternative to the traditional plutonium-238. This shift comes as collaboration between NASA’s Glenn Research Center and the University of Leicester in the UK highlights the benefits of americium research, which has gained traction in Europe over the past two decades.
One innovative aspect of this research involves the free-piston Stirling converter. Unlike traditional engines, this converter uses free-floating pistons to transform thermal energy into electricity, resulting in minimal wear and potentially decades of continuous operation. Researchers have already tested a Stirling generator powered by electrically heated americium-241 simulators, marking a significant step forward.
Salvatore Oriti, a mechanical engineer at Glenn, expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress. He noted the impressive collaboration between NASA and the University of Leicester, which enabled rapid and cost-effective prototypes. This joint effort showcased a shared vision and commitment to advancing space technology.
The testbed design features a critical safety innovation. It can sustain operations even if the Stirling converter fails, illustrating the reliability of this new system for future missions. Hannah Sargeant, a research fellow at the University of Leicester, emphasized the robustness of the americium-powered generator during testing.
Results from the initial tests met key performance and efficiency targets. Building on this success, the Glenn team plans to develop a more refined version of the testbed. This upgrade aims for reduced mass and enhanced capabilities, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of space environments.
Overall, this research has far-reaching implications for future missions that could last decades. The ability to harness new power sources can revolutionize exploration, providing a sustainable and efficient energy solution for long-term space endeavors. For those eager to learn more about NASA’s RPS programs, additional information is available on their website.
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