The Status of Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) Since Cassini
MOUND MUSEUM LECTURE SERIES SPOTLIGHTS
In January 2006, NSA launched the New Horizons mission to perform a flyby study of the Pluto system in 2015, and a secondary mission to flyby and study one or more Kulper belt objects (KBOs). A General Purpose Heat Source (GPHS) Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG) powers the New Horizons spacecraft. However, NASA recognized that future exploration missions would require a generation of power systems resilient to both deep space and planetary surface environments. This discussion highlights the design challenges and power system architectures that NASA has embarked on since the launch of the Cassini and New Horizon missions.
Speaker
Chadwick Barklay, Ph.D. – Distinguished Research Scientist – Dr. Barklay is responsible for leading the Advanced High-Temperature Materials Group at the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI). His group comprises of scientists, engineers, and technicians who conduct cutting-edge sponsored material-based research and development for various sponsors. Dr. Barklay has over thirty years of experience in the assembly, testing, and transportation of Radioisotope Power System (RPS) units. Dr. Barklay and his team are establishing the capability to design, fabricate, assemble, and test RPS units at UDRI for commercial space applications.
For additional details call 937-353-4457. The presentation is free and open to the public and has ample free parking.
Mound Cold War Discovery Center
E-Mail: msem475@gmail.com
Phone: 937-247-0402
Web: www.daytonhistory.org
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