To Europa and beyond (enabled by a small-RPS)

Solar System Exploration (SSE) to the Outer Planets requires internal power sources, since external power generation, relying on solar power, is not very effective or practical. One of the scientifically interesting destinations in this region is Jupiter´s moon Europa, where a lander would require internal power sources, such as batteries or radioisotope power systems (RPS) to achieve mission success. This paper discusses a Europa lander concept as a potential adjunct element to NASA´s proposed Jupiter Icy Moons Orbiter (JIMO) mission. The lander would operate on the surface for 3 to 14 days, performing astrobiology, geophysics and geological-compositional measurements as defined by the JIMO Science Definition Team (SDT). The power system trade study for this concept compares small-RPSs up to ∼50 We against primary batteries. Additional SSE destinations are also outlined, where small-RPSs provide a viable option to accomplish science and mission objectives.