RTG (Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator) Simulation

A conceptual visualization of an RTG converting heat from radioactive decay into electrical power.

How an RTG Works

An RTG generates electrical power from the heat of radioactive decay. At its core is a radioactive heat source, typically Plutonium-238 (\(^{238}\)Pu), which continuously produces heat as it decays.

This heat is captured by a thermoelectric converter, which contains thousands of thermocouples. These thermocouples convert the heat directly into electricity through the **Seebeck effect**, a phenomenon where a temperature difference between two different conductors generates a voltage.

Applications in Space Exploration

• Voyager Missions: The Voyager 1 and 2 probes, launched in 1977, are still operating today, powered by RTGs for over 40 years.
• Cassini-Huygens Mission: The Cassini orbiter used three RTGs to power its journey to Saturn and its extended mission.
• Mars Rovers: NASA's Curiosity and Perseverance rovers on Mars are powered by an RTG, allowing them to operate in the cold Martian night and dusty conditions where solar power is not feasible.

RTG Safety

RTGs are designed to be extremely safe. The \(^{238}\)Pu fuel is in a ceramic form, resistant to heat and corrosion, and is encased in multiple layers of durable materials like iridium and graphite. This robust design ensures the radioactive material remains contained even in the event of a launch accident or atmospheric reentry.