RTGs
RTGs (Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators) are devices that generate electrical power from the heat produced by the natural decay of radioactive isotopes. They are commonly used in space missions where solar power is not feasible, such as missions to the outer planets or deep space. RTGs have no moving parts and can operate for decades, making them a reliable power source for long-duration missions. 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. The most commonly used isotope in RTGs is plutonium-238, which has a half-life of 87.7 years and produces a high amount of heat. RTGs have been used in many space missions, including the Voyager, Pioneer, and Mars rover missions.
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