Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator
A Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG) is a type of power source that uses the heat generated by the natural decay of radioactive isotopes, such as plutonium-238, to generate electricity through the thermoelectric effect. The heat produced by the decay of the isotopes is converted into electricity by thermocouples, which are made of two different metals that generate a voltage when heated. RTGs have been used to power spacecraft and other remote systems that require a reliable and long-lasting source of electricity, such as the Voyager and Pioneer spacecraft, Mars rovers, and deep space probes. RTGs are preferred over other power sources in situations where solar power is not feasible, such as in deep space missions or on the surface of planets with low solar radiation. RTGs are also used in remote locations on Earth, such as in lighthouses and weather stations.
Your Previous Searches
Random Picks
- Long-period Comets: Long-period comets are comets with an orbital period greater than 200 years. They originate from the Oort Cloud, a hypothetical cloud of icy objects located beyond the Kuiper Belt, and are believed to be remnants from the early Solar System ... Read More >>
- Passive: In space and astronautical engineering, passive refers to a type of thermal control system that does not require any active components such as pumps or fans. Passive thermal control systems rely on the use of materials and structures that c ... Read More >>
- Launch Costs: Launch costs refer to the expenses incurred in designing, manufacturing, and launching a spacecraft or a rocket into space. These costs include the development of the launch vehicle, the construction of the launch site, the cost of fuel, an ... Read More >>
Top News
Orionids meteor shower is this weekend: Where and when to watch its peak...
Orionids meteor shower is this weekend: Where and when to watch its peakgo.com...
News Source: ABC News on 2024-10-18
Acting or hosting, Travis Kelce wants to continue to pursue a showbiz career. Bu...
Travis Kelce is the host of “Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity?”...
News Source: ABC News on 2024-10-09
Now is a great time to see Saturn in all its ringed glory...
My first sight of Saturn through a telescope inspired my love of space. Dig out your telescopes or visit your local astronomy club, and you may be lucky enough to spot our sixth planet's stunning thic...
News Source: New Scientist on 2024-10-09
Was Bruce Willis right? Could a nuclear blast save us from killer asteroid?...
Scientists simulated a nuclear explosion using x-ray pulses to push an asteroid-like rock away in space-like conditions....
News Source: Al Jazeera English on 2024-10-04
China's answer to SpaceX's Starlink is also threatening astronomy...
The first 18 satellites of a planned Chinese mega constellation are brighter than all but 500 stars in the sky, raising fears of a huge impact on astronomy...
News Source: New Scientist on 2024-10-03