Abstract

Abstract A comparison of solar cell, thermionic, mercury Rankine, steam and Brayton solar systems along with isotope Rankine systems are analyzed at 3, 8, and 20 kw electrical. Component performance, efficiency, and weight estimates are provided for each system with consistent basic assumptions and analytical techniques in order to provide comparison validity. Criteria used for the comparisons include present development status, flight availability, system weight, collector area, radiator area, system cost, development cost, efficiency, and orientation requirements. At 20-kw electrical, the mercury Rankine system is the lightest and has had minimum projected area and minimum unit cost. The biphenyl Rankine system is 14% heavier and requires 11% greater area. Although the Brayton system is the most efficient, it is two times heavier than the mercury Rankine engine and requires 25% greater area. The solar cell system requires the least development and orientation accuracy but it is four times heavier and requires three times the area of the Rankine systems. The solar cell system cost is over 40 times that of the dynamic engines. Conceptual drawings of several dynamic powerplants are shown for launch and operation configurations.

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