Using Radioisotope Power Systems to Study Ganymede

Ganymede, Jupiter’s largest moon, would be a prime subject for an RPS-powered orbit mission. Despite being significantly smaller than Earth, Ganymede has some Earth-like qualities including a magnetic field, atmosphere, oceans, and ice, which were discovered by the Galileo Spacecraft. Though the atmosphere is too thin for human life, Ganymede has the potential to become a base of operations and research in the far solar system. This requires sufficient research that could be achieved through an orbiting satellite. Using studying Ganymede’s surface, NASA can determine the location of a lunar base. Utilizing the underground oceans of Ganymede, hydroelectric turbines can be created to power a base on Ganymede, helping contribute to resource collection in the area. Understanding the solar system beyond the asteroid belt is vital because it helps us look to the future, by mitigating the effects of climate change and resource depletion. This mission would be powered by RPS, which generates energy from Plutonium-238. By taking advantage of the compact and stackable containers, the satellite could orbit Ganymede for decades, thanks to Plutonium-238’s 88-year half-life. I believe that I would be able to successfully manage this mission due to my ability to adapt, persevere, and fix the problems that face the mission. I identify obstacles and use the resources available to me to solve puzzles that face me. It is important to have capable leaders because, without them, success is impossible. Using human creativity and perseverance, RPS, and Plutonium-238 Ganymede can become the home of an extraterrestrial base.