Considerations in the fabrication, assembly, and testing of radioisotopic thermo-photovoltaic (RTPV) generators for future space missions

Journal Article · Fri Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1996 · AIP Conference Proceedings

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.49972· OSTI ID:390454

Barklay, C D; Miller, R G ^[1]; Frazier, T A ^[2]

---

1. EG&G Mound Applied Technologies, P.O. Box 3000, Miamisburg, Ohio 45343-3000 (United States)
2. US Department of Energy, P.O. Box 66, Miamisburg, Ohio 45343-0066 (United States)

To increase energy output with a smaller size and mass than the radioisotopic thermoelectric generators (RTGs) that were previously used on deep space missions, a radioisotopic thermophotovoltaic (RTPV) system is being developed for the {open_quote}{open_quote}Pluto Express{close_quote}{close_quote} flyby mission. To minimize cost and development time, some facilities and components currently used for RTG production can be used to produce RTPVs. Production options also include out-sourcing and use of off-the-shelf hardware. Necessary modifications to tooling, production equipment, testing and shipping methods can be achieved in a timely manner so that the RTPV will be ready well before the planned launch of {open_quote}{open_quote}Pluto Express.{close_quote}{close_quote} {copyright} {ital 1996 American Institute of Physics.}

• Research Organization: Mound Plant
• DOE Contract Number: AC24-88DP43495
• OSTI ID: 390454
• Report Number(s): CONF-960109--
• Journal Information: AIP Conference Proceedings, Journal Name: AIP Conference Proceedings Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 361; ISSN APCPCS; ISSN 0094-243X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

07 ISOTOPE AND RADIATION SOURCES
14 SOLAR ENERGY
ENERGY CONVERSION
NESDPS Office of Nuclear Energy Space and Defense Power Systems
PLUTO PLANET
RADIOISOTOPE HEAT SOURCES
SATELLITES
SPACE FLIGHT
SPACE VEHICLE COMPONENTS
SPACECRAFT POWER SUPPLIES
THERMOPHOTOVOLTAIC CONVERTERS