An RTG-based power system is being designed for a 20-year mission to Pluto. EOL power required is 100 W. Pu-238 has been selected for the radioisotope heat source with initial thermoelectric conversion efficiency at 7% BOL degrading to 5% at EOL due to radiation damage and aging of the thermoelectric elements. a) (7pts) What is the approximate mass of the RTG? b) (7pts) How much heat source isotope in GPHS units is required if a 30% efficient dynamic conversion system is used, assuming this unit does not degrade with similar radiation exposure and aging? c.) (6 pts) List at least 6 key pieces of an RTG

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a Calculating the mass of the RTG requires finding the amount of heat generated by the decay of Pu238 necessary to provide 100 W of electrical power at endoflife EOL Let P be the thermal power output ... View the full answer