All articles tagged with #americium 241
NASA is researching americium-241 as a new isotope for nuclear batteries to power spacecraft for centuries, potentially enabling longer and more distant space missions beyond current capabilities that rely on plutonium-238. This development involves testing advanced conversion systems like Stirling engines to harness the isotope's long half-life, promising a new era of sustainable deep space exploration.
NASA is testing a new nuclear fuel, americium-241, with a half-life of 432 years, to power deep space missions more reliably and sustainably, using Stirling generators in collaboration with the University of Leicester, potentially revolutionizing long-duration space exploration.
NASA is testing a new nuclear fuel, americium-241, which could outperform plutonium-238 in powering deep space missions, offering longer-lasting, reliable energy for spacecraft exploring the outer solar system. The innovative Stirling generator design allows for continuous operation with minimal wear and increased resilience, potentially revolutionizing space power systems and enabling longer, more ambitious missions.