Electric Power Generation for an Orbiting Satellite Using Uranium Heat Source

This paper investigates the feasibility and efficiency of utilizing uranium-based nuclear reactors to generate electric power for orbiting satellites. Unlike conventional chemical energy sources, which are inadequate for prolonged missions and add significant mass, nuclear reactors utilizing uranium, offer a sustainable solution through nuclear fission, delivering substantial energy over extended durations. The proposed system integrates a compact fission reactor, thermoelectric modules, and a heat radiator to convert fission heat into electrical power. The performance of the thermoelectric modules, characterized by parameters like the Seebeck coefficient and the internal resistance is pivotal in this conversion process. The current study introduces a comprehensive thermal circuit model to describe the energy dynamics within the thermoelectric modules. It employs the Newton-Raphson method to compute critical variables such as inner and outer surface temperatures, total electrical power, and thermoelectric efficiency. Results indicate that while the inner and outer thermoelectric module temperatures can escalate, the system achieves significant electrical output albeit with initial modest efficiency which is enhanced with higher thermal generation rates. This approach ensures satellites a dependable, sustainable power source, extending their operational lifespan and functionality.