Future NASA deep‐space missions will require radioisotope‐powered electric generators that are just as reliable as current RTGs, but more efficient and of higher specific power (W/kg). Thermoacoustic engines at the ∼1‐kW scale have converted high‐temperature heat into acoustic, or PV, power without moving parts at 30% efficiency. Consisting of only tubes and a few heat exchangers, thermoacoustic engines are low mass and promise to be highly reliable. Coupling a thermoacoustic engine to a low mass, highly reliable and efficient linear alternator will create a heat‐driven electric generator suitable for deep‐space applications. Conversion efficiency data will be presented on a demonstration thermoacoustic engine designed for the 100‐Watt power range.

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