A RADIOISOTOPIC POWER SUPPLY FOR THE SUNBLAZER SPACE PROBE.
Abstract
A preliminary investigation of the application of a radioisotopic power source in conjunction with the Sunblazer space probe of the M.I.T. Center for Space Research resulted in the design of a 12 watt-electrical power source which weighs 5.16 pounds. The fuel consists of 526 grams of Pu02 dispersed in graphite. The fuel is contained in a capsule made of Haynes-25 Alloy which has been designed to contain the isotope under all possible launch abort conditions. The heat from the isotope is converted to electrical power by passing it through 40 Silicon-Germanium thermoelectric couples. The output of 12 watts is produced at 2.66 volts and an overall efficiency of 5.80%. The radiation of waste heat is accomplished by means of an aluminum radiator which is always directed toward cold space. The probe is oriented by means of solar radiation pressure.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0624684
Entities
People
- David R. Perkins
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology