The Robust Radioisotope Power Systems

Whether it’s the Mars Pathfinder mission that ventured rocky Martian terrain, or New Horizons which observed thrilling discoveries of Pluto in frigid temperatures, Radioisotope Power Systems have proven to be an extremely resilient nuclear energy technology! RPS is remarkable due to its efficiency on spacecrafts such as Ulysses used in what was an uber-successful study of the sun and for its ability to adapt to the severity of outer space. The radioactive fuel that powers these apparatuses is known as Plutonium-238, a hot, glowing substance that outputs sizable amounts of energy. When reflecting on passions of mine, I think of golf and playing the violin. The “fuel” that motivates me to improve in these activities is my goal of becoming a pro at the sport I love and when I perform at orchestra concerts. Even when playing on the golf course seems wearisome, or practicing a challenging piece of music develops into a bout of frustration, I tell myself to persevere through what I’m trying to accomplish. This situation is similar to when Radioisotope Power Systems continue to function despite having to face extreme conditions in space. SOURCES: - https://rps.nasa.gov/ - https://rps.nasa.gov/about-rps/about-plutonium-238/ - https://rps.nasa.gov/about-rps/overview/ - https://rps.nasa.gov/missions/7/new-horizons/ - https://rps.nasa.gov/missions/5/mars-pathfinder/