PU-238-coupLed dynamic power system for SpAce exploRation and beyond

For space missions both Photovoltaic (PV) cells and Radioisotope Thermoelectrical Generators (RTG), fueled by Plutonium 238 (Pu-238) are used to produce electricity to power missions. From a European point of view, this has several drawbacks, as neither Pu-238 or any RTGs are produced in Europe and RTGs are very power inefficient, with a yield often of 5% of the fuel potential. This means that large amounts of fuel, and large RTGs, are needed to power missions, which increases the payloads.

PULSAR is the first step on a European path to resolve these issues and take a world leading role in powering space exploration.

The PULSAR project has two overarching global ambitions. These are;

• Develop, in Europe, the building blocks to establish the complete end-to-end capability to produce Pu-238 to help power existing Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTG) and Radioisotope Heater Units (RHUs) from the constituent elements to module production – addressing critical & non-dependencies technology needs;

• Disruptively increase the thermo-electrical conversion efficiency of dynamic Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) with an advanced Stirling engine improving the performance of the ”state-of-practice” thermoelectric materials.

This will be achieved by

-Performing first designs and studies for selecting targets for Pu-238 generation, examine fabrication constraints and separation options

-Designing a new welding methodology for iridium encapsulation by laser welding and produce a prototype capsule.

-Designing and evaluating a robust Stirling convertor for use as an RPS

-Addressing the regulatory and safety framework for Pu-238 use in space travel

-Performing an analysis of the market potential and its segmentation for PULSAR results

PULSAR brings together a uniquely placed consortium led by TRACTEBEL, with the support of JRC, ESA and Ariane group.