New nuclear power generator for deep space missions is being developed in UK

Energy is a precious commodity in space exploration. Perpetual Atomics, a spin-off from the University of Leicester, is developing nuclear technology for space missions.

The recently launched spin-out company specializes in developing radioisotope power systems to provide a reliable and long-lasting energy source for deep space exploration.

Moreover, it aims to offer energy solutions that can withstand the extreme conditions of outer space.

“The cutting-edge technology that the team at Perpetual Atomics is developing could not only harness nuclear power to sustain exploration of space for longer periods of time but allow us to venture further into space than ever before, enabling more science and bringing more benefits back to Earth,” said Julie Black, Director of Missions and Capabilities at the UK Space Agency.

Growing interest in nuclear power

Nuclear power is hailed as the essential ingredient for expanding humanity’s reach beyond Earth, whether for the Moon or the distant Red Plant.

Interestingly, nuclear energy has already proven its worth. The Voyager probes, now billions of miles from Earth, have demonstrated the endurance of nuclear power as they journey through interstellar space.

The probes use Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) that convert the heat generated by the radioactive decay of plutonium-238 into electricity.

Designed in the 1960s, the Voyager probes were groundbreaking for their time. Today’s improved understanding of space technology and nuclear power could lead to even more ambitious explorations.

NASA is considering nuclear power for its lunar base camp, which is expected to be operational by the decade’s end. Nuclear reactors could provide both electricity and heat.

Furthermore, nuclear engines could be the future of spacecraft propulsion. NASA and DARPA plan to launch a nuclear-propelled spacecraft within the next few years. Meanwhile, the European Space Agency is also exploring the use of nuclear engines for space exploration through various studies.

This is not it. Interestingly, the nuclear system could make the journey to Mars much easier. Current space missions are constrained by time windows and complex trajectories to conserve fuel.

On the other hand, nuclear propulsion would offer more flexibility in planning missions to Mars and other distant destinations.

With this spin-off launch, Perpetual Atomics is well-positioned to take advantage of the increasing interest in nuclear energy.

Long-lasting power source

Building upon two decades of research by the University of Leicester’s Space Nuclear Power group, Perpetual Atomics will advance the development of radioisotope power systems.

These systems convert the heat released from radioactive decay into electricity or thermal energy, which can be used to power spacecraft components.

The Radioisotope Heater Units (RHUs) and Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) will provide sustained power for lunar base camps, rovers, and spacecraft.

Their nuclear systems depend on Americium-241 (an isotope of americium), which has a long half-life. This means it decays slowly and provides a steady source of heat and electricity for many years.

As per the press release , the start-up’s development of radioisotope thermoelectric generators has been supported by ESA and the UK Space Agency.

Perpetual Atomics aims to work with partners from around the globe to increase the adoption of radioisotope power technology in space missions.

“The spin-out launch will seize an opportunity that is already pushing new frontiers for the space industry globally, and we are excited to see it do the same for humanity’s exploration beyond our world,” said Professor Sarah Davies, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Leicester.