Rps power systems Wallis and Futuna

What is a power system (RPS)?

Power Systems (RPS) are being considered for a wide range of future NASA space science and exploration missions. Some candidate missions include Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), Europa Orbiter, Solar Probe, and Robotic Lunar Exploration Program-2 (RLEP-2).

What is RPS efficiency?

The RPS efficiency reported in Table 1 is the total end-to-end efficiency accounting for thermal insulation losses, power conversion efficiency, and power conditioning losses. The two thermoelectric systems have an efficiency of about 6% and the Stirling system provides just over 23%.

What is RPS & how does it work?

RPS could also be coupled with electric propulsion (Radioisotope Electric Propulsion or REP) to reduce the launch mass, decrease the trip time, or increase the payload mass for some outer planet science missions.

What is RPS heat input?

The total RPS heat input (QH), defined as the net electrical power (PE) divided by the RPS efficiency (ηS), determines the required number of GPHS modules and the corresponding mass of the RPS heat source. The cold-end temperature and system efficiency determines the radiator area and the corresponding mass of the RPS radiator.

Will RPS be used as a power source for the lunar outpost?

As the Vision for Space Exploration is implemented, it is quite possible that RPS will be utilized for the human lunar outpost as a general utility power source.

How long does RPS last?

RPS design life can easily exceed 10 years, due in part to the use of well-known materials, rigorous component testing, and a Pu-238 heat source with an 87.7 year half-life. A major motivation for using RPS on NASA missions is their ability to produce continuous, reliable electrical power in