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The Technology of Discovery - (Jpl Space Science and Technology) by David Friedrich Woerner (Hardcover)
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Highlights
- The Technology of Discovery Incisive discussions of a critical mission-enabling technology for deep space missions In The Technology of Discovery: Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators and Thermoelectric Technologies for Space Exploration, distinguished JPL engineer and manager David Woerner delivers an insightful discussion of how radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) are used in the exploration of space.
- About the Author: David Friedrich Woerner is the Systems Formulation manager for NASA's Radioisotope Power Systems Program (RPSP) where he oversees several RPS developments.
- 336 Pages
- Science, Energy
- Series Name: Jpl Space Science and Technology
Description
About the Book
"Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) produce continuous, quiet electrical power for spacecraft exploring our solar system and the space beyond. These generators use thermoelectric technologies to convert heat produced by the natural decay of radioisotopes into electrical power. Two leading thermoelectric material systems have emerged as contenders to supplant currently available thermoelectric materials. Each is at a differing level of readiness for flight. Both are poised to emerge from the laboratory and be brought to production for newer, potentially more powerful RTGs. This should enable spacecraft and mission designers to save on mass and radioisotope fuel consumption. In addition, one of the technologies is so efficient and powerful as to enable new mission types."--Book Synopsis
The Technology of DiscoveryIncisive discussions of a critical mission-enabling technology for deep space missions
In The Technology of Discovery: Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators and Thermoelectric Technologies for Space Exploration, distinguished JPL engineer and manager David Woerner delivers an insightful discussion of how radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) are used in the exploration of space. It also explores their history, function, their market potential, and the governmental forces that drive their production and design. Finally, it presents key technologies incorporated in RTGs and their potential for future missions and design innovation.
The author provides a clear and understandable treatment of the subject, ranging from straightforward overviews of the technology to complex discussions of the field of thermoelectrics. Included is also background on NASA's decision to resurrect the GPHS-RTG and discussion of the future of commercialization of nuclear space missions. Readers will also find:
- A thorough introduction to RTGs, as well as their invention, history, and evolution
- Comprehensive explorations of the contributions made by RTGs to US space exploration
- Practical discussions of the evolution, selection, and production of RPS fuels
- In-depth examinations of technologies and generators currently in development, including skutterudite thermoelectrics for an enhanced MMRTG
Perfect for space explorers, aerospace engineers, managers, and scientists, The Technology of Discovery will also earn a place in the libraries of NASA archivists and other historians.
From the Back Cover
Incisive discussions of a critical mission-enabling technology for deep space missions
In The Technology of Discovery: Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators and Thermoelectric Technologies for Space Exploration, distinguished JPL engineer and manager David Woerner delivers an insightful discussion of how radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) are used in the exploration of space. It also explores their history, function, their market potential, and the governmental forces that drive their production and design. Finally, it presents key technologies incorporated in RTGs and their potential for future missions and design innovation.
The author provides a clear and understandable treatment of the subject, ranging from straightforward overviews of the technology to complex discussions of the field of thermoelectrics. Included is also background on NASA's decision to resurrect the GPHS-RTG and discussion of the future of commercialization of nuclear space missions. Readers will also find:
- A thorough introduction to RTGs, as well as their invention, history, and evolution
- Comprehensive explorations of the contributions made by RTGs to US space exploration
- Practical discussions of the evolution, selection, and production of RPS fuels
- In-depth examinations of technologies and generators currently in development, including skutterudite thermoelectrics for an enhanced MMRTG
Perfect for space explorers, aerospace engineers, managers, and scientists, The Technology of Discovery will also earn a place in the libraries of NASA archivists and other historians.
About the Author
David Friedrich Woerner is the Systems Formulation manager for NASA's Radioisotope Power Systems Program (RPSP) where he oversees several RPS developments. Before joining the RPSP, he oversaw the MMRTG's development and integration for the Mars Science Laboratory Project, and he was the MMRTG and Launch Services office manager for the MSL Project that successfully landed the MMRTG-powered Curiosity rover on Mars on August 6, 2012. He has won numerous NASA awards including earning NASA's Exceptional Service and Exceptional Achievement Medals.