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Stirling Convertor for the Stirling Radioisotope Generator Tested as a Prelude to Transition to FlightThe Stirling Radioisotope Generator (SRG) is currently being developed by Lockheed Martin Astronautics (Valley Forge, PA) under contract to the Department of Energy (Germantown, MD). In support of this project, the NASA Glenn Research Center has established a near-term technology effort to provide some of the critical data to ensure a successful transition to flight for what will be the first dynamic power system to be used in space. The generator will be a high-efficiency electric power source for potential use on NASA space science missions. The generator will be able to operate in the vacuum of deep space or in an atmosphere such as on the surface of Mars. High system efficiency is obtained through the use of free-piston Stirling power-conversion technology. The power output of the generator will be greater than 100 W at the beginning of life, with the slow decline in power being largely due to decay of the plutonium heat source. Previously, Glenn's supporting technology efforts focused only on the most critical technical issues.
Document ID
20050192424
Acquisition Source
Glenn Research Center
Document Type
Other
Authors
Schreiber, Jeffrey G. (NASA Glenn Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Thieme, Lanny G. (NASA Glenn Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
September 7, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 2004
Publication Information
Publication: Research and Technology 2003
Subject Category
Aircraft Propulsion And Power
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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