L3Harris Technologies has completed a key milestone in developing the Next-Generation RTG nuclear power source for spacecraft. The project successfully passed its final design review before moving into production. This radioisotope generator will provide electrical power to spacecraft in deep space where sunlight is insufficient. This is reported by Ixbt.com .
The new system generates approximately 250 watts of power using heat from the decay of plutonium-238. More compact and efficient than previous generations, this device is of great importance for NASA missions. RTG technology has previously been successfully used on legendary spacecraft such as Voyager, Cassini, New Horizons, as well as Curiosity and Perseverance.
L3Harris experts note that the new system will enable long-term missions to the most distant space objects. Specifically, NASA's planned mission to Uranus is expected to feature two such generators. In the future, this technology is expected to be the primary power source for exploring Neptune, Triton, and objects in the Kuiper Belt.
The project began in 2021 commissioned by the Idaho National Laboratory, with engineers working to revive old technologies and update production documentation. A follow-up review for serial production readiness is scheduled for 2027. If all processes go according to plan, the new generators will be ready for use in NASA missions by the early 2030s.
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