Impact tests and modelling for the ESA radioisotope power systems

• Published in: Journal of space safety engineering Vol. 9; no. 1; pp. 56 - 71
• Main Authors: Barco, Alessandra, Ambrosi, Richard M., Fongarland, Christophe, Brunet, Pierre, Guguin, Yann, Stephenson, Keith
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.03.2022
• Subjects: Impact; Radioisotope; RHU; RTG; Safety; Space; Test; Impact; Space; RTG; Test; Safety; Radioisotope; RHU

Since 2009, ESA has been conducting R&D activities leading towards the development of a European capability in radioisotope power systems for space. The programme is focused on the use of americium-241 as an innovative alternative to the plutonium-238 currently used by the USA and Russia. Two di...