Space‐R thermionic space nuclear power system with single cell incore thermionic fuel elements

The SPACE‐R is a compact 2 tonne space reactor that can fit into the nose cone of a Delta II, Atlas Centaur or larger booster system. It is capable of producing 40 kWe for 10 years in space environments. The system is launched without radioactivity and is designed to meet all U.S. and International public safety and environmental protection objectives with minimum loading of fissionable ²³⁵U and minimum proliferation potential. The system utilizes the single cell thermionic fuel element concept which facilities full scale prelaunch thermal and electric output testing without generation of radioactivity prior to launch and obtaining a long life safe orbit. The current design is based upon technologies, materials, components, and temperatures that have been space flight proven within the U.S. SNAP reactor program, and the Soviet Topaz reactor programs.