A 5-GWe nuclear satellite power system conceptual designThis paper presents the results of a brief study performed for MSFC on the conceptual design of a nuclear satellite power station which delivers 5 GWe net power to earth by microwave transmission. The system contains 26 modules each consisting of a reactor, fuel processing plant, Brayton PCU, space radiator, and nuclear shield. A high-temperature, gas-cooled, pebble-bed plutonium breeder concept was selected which is resupplied with fertile U-238. Sections of this core are periodically replaced and the spent fuel is chemically processed, the radioactive wastes separated, and stored for eventual space disposal. Fresh fuel pellets, formed from the U-238 and the bred plutonium, are recycled back to the reactor. The hot (1317 C) helium gas exiting the reactor serves as the working fluid in a 30%-efficient Brayton PCU.
Document ID
19790026020
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Goodman, M. (Rockwell International Corp. Canoga Park, CA, United States)
Thomson, W. B. (Rockwell International Corp. Atomics International Div., Canoga Park, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1978
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Meeting Information
Meeting: Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference