Mission analysis of a Neptune detector with a 10 kWe nuclear reactor power generator

Abstract

<p indent=0mm>Based on a comparative analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of radioisotope and nuclear reactor power generators in space applications, this paper determines that the space reactor power generator is the energy scheme of the Neptune exploration mission, proposes four kinds of major scientific problems involved in Neptune exploration, and introduces preliminary scheme ideas, such as the function module, fight orbit, and design constraints of the mission. Then, focusing on the reactor, the thermal-electric conversion device, the technical route, nuclear safety and radiation protection, the study elaborates the technical scheme of a 10 kWe space reactor power generator. The Neptune detector bus scheme, including TT&C communication, electric propulsion, independent operation and management, high-reliability and long-life design, payload, and microsatellite probe, can provide reference for the demonstration and implementation of Neptune exploration.