THE CONSIDERATIONS OF FUELING AND TESTING A DYNAMIC RPS

摘要

Static radioisotope power systems (RPS) have been the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) choice for electrical power for deep space and other missions due to its reliability and autonomous operation. However, the low power-conversion efficiency of these systems has prompted NASA to investigate a more efficient way to extract power out of the fuel. Dynamic systems, such as Stirling or Brayton cycle engines, are examples of possible solutions to achieve more efficient power output. With new systems and designs comes new considerations that must be overcome. This paper looks at some of the fueling and testing considerations created by a dynamic RPS.