Abstract :
The NASA CSTI (Civil Space Technology Initiative) was established to provide the foundation for technology development in automation and robotics, information, propulsion, and power. The CSTI High Capacity Power Program builds on the technology efforts of the SP-100 program, incorporates the previous NASA SP-100 Advanced Technology project, and provides a bridge to NASA Project Pathfinder. Recent advances in CSTI high-capacity power development including conversion systems, thermal management, power management, system diagnostics, and environmental interactions are discussed. It is noted that technology advancement in all areas, including materials, is required to assure the high reliability and seven to 10 year lifetime demanded for future space nuclear power systems
Keywords :
fission reactor theory and design; space vehicle power plants; Civil Space Technology Initiative; High Capacity Power Program; NASA CSTI; NASA Project Pathfinder; SP-100 program; conversion systems; environmental interactions; power management; system diagnostics; thermal management; Energy management; Environmental management; NASA; Orbital robotics; Power system management; Power system reliability; Propulsion; Robotics and automation; Space technology; Thermal management;
