Small ex-core heat pipe thermionic reactor concept (SEHPTR)
Abstract
The Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) has developed an innovative space nuclear power concept with unique features and significant advantages for both Defense and Civilian space missions. The Small Ex-core Heat Pipe Thermionic Reactor (SEHPTR) concept was developed in response to US Air Force needs for space nuclear power in the range of 10 to 40 kilowatts. This paper describes the SEHPTR concept and discusses the key technical issues and advantages of such a system.
- Publication:
-
IECEC 1991; Proceedings of the 26th Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference, Volume 1
- Pub Date:
- 1991
- Bibcode:
- 1991iece....1..440J
- Keywords:
-
- Heat Pipes;
- Ion Engines;
- Nuclear Rocket Engines;
- Reactor Cores;
- Thermionic Power Generation;
- Computer Programs;
- Reactor Design;
- Space Missions;
- Spacecraft Power Supplies;
- Thermionic Converters;
- Spacecraft Propulsion and Power