Comparison of dynamic isotope power systems for distributed planet surface applications

Technical Report · Thu Aug 01 00:00:00 EDT 1991

OSTI ID:5302273

Bents, D J; Mckissock, B I; Hanlon, J C; Schmitz, P C; Rodriguez, C D; Withrow, C A

Dynamic isotope power system (DIPS) alternatives were investigated and characterized for the surface mission elements associated with a lunar base and subsequent manned Mars expedition. System designs based on two convertor types were studied. These systems were characterized parametrically and compared over the steady-state electrical output power range 0.2 to 20 kWe. Three methods of thermally integrating the heat source and the Stirling heater head were considered, depending on unit size. Figures of merit were derived from the characterizations and compared over the parametric range. Design impacts of mission environmental factors are discussed and quantitatively assessed.

• Research Organization: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Cleveland, OH (United States). Lewis Research Center
• OSTI ID: 5302273
• Report Number(s): N-91-28278; NASA-TM-4303; E-5905; NAS-1.15:4303
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

07 ISOTOPES AND RADIATION SOURCES
RADIOISOTOPE BATTERIES
TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
RADIOISOTOPE HEAT SOURCES
BRAYTON CYCLE
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY CONVERSION
HEATERS
SPACE POWER REACTORS
SPACECRAFT POWER SUPPLIES
SPECIFICATIONS
STIRLING CYCLE
TECHNOLOGY UTILIZATION
THERMOELECTRIC GENERATORS
CONVERSION
DIRECT ENERGY CONVERTERS
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT
EVALUATION
HEAT SOURCES
MOBILE REACTORS
POWER REACTORS
POWER SUPPLIES
REACTORS
THERMODYNAMIC CYCLES
NESDPS Office of Nuclear Energy Space and Defense Power Systems
070300* - Isotopic Power Supplies