Europe has developed mini nuclear power system for moon tasks

Europe has developed mini nuclear power system for moon tasks

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Europe has developed mini nuclear power system for moon tasks





Europe has developed mini nuclear power system for moon tasks



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Although solar energy is abundant in some parts of the Moon, it is not always a reliable resource. In this context AyReturn to return to the acceleration, one of the biggest problems of space tasks, a critical solution for the reliable energy source has been developed. Engineers in Europe, in accordance with the challenging lunar conditions mini nuclear energy system By designing, it offered a sustainable power supply for future reconnaissance tools and freight carriers.

There are plenty of solar energy in certain areas on the surface of the moon. However, the nights on the Moon are much longer than the Earth – 14th World Days last. This makes solar energy no longer a reliable resource. In addition, solar panels become dysfunctional in these regions, as many of the craters at the poles of the Moon are constantly shadowed.

Energy problem is approaching the solution on the moon

Managed by Tracttebel as a solution to these challenging conditions and financed by EURATOM PULSAR Consortium, radioizotop power system (RPS) developed a nuclear energy source called. This system is radioactive Plutonium-238 (PU-238) Produces electricity with the natural degradation of isotope and offers a long-term, uninterrupted energy source.




Europe has developed mini nuclear power system for moon tasks



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The system, which was developed within the scope of the Pulsar project, was designed especially for vehicles and freight carriers that will explore on the surface of the moon. 100 to 500 watt electric power The system that can provide was optimized to be more efficient and lighter than the existing nuclear battery and generators. RPS, Plutonium-238 (PU-238) to degrade the heat that occurs to electricity into electricity two Stirling engine He’s using it.

The Pulsar team carried out extensive engineering activities to ensure that the system is resistant to extreme temperature changes, radiation environment and mechanical challenges of the Moon. As a result of the tests, the system that thermal-electric transformation efficiency can reach 20 percent stated.

In addition, important measures were taken in terms of security. The system is designed to be safely launched from the French Guyanası. On the other hand, Europe is currently dependent on the production of plutonium-238. Another goal of the Pulsar Consortium is to ensure strategic independence in space discoveries by establishing Europe’s own PU-238 production infrastructure.

In the future, a significant portion of the discovery works on the Moon will focus on examining water ice and other valuable resources in permanent shaded craters that do not receive sunlight. However, since solar panels cannot be used in these regions, the need for nuclear energy is increasing. This system also aims to contribute to Europe’s upcoming Argonaut Moon landing mission.

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