Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) are nuclear batteries that generate electricity from the heat produced by the radioactive decay of isotopes such as Plutonium-238.
They provide reliable and long-lasting power in environments where solar panels are impractical or unavailable, such as deep space missions or remote locations on Earth.
RTGs consist of plutonium-238 pellets, which emit a steady stream of heat due to their radioactive decay. This heat is then converted into electrical energy using thermocouples that exploit the Seebeck effect, producing direct current without any moving parts or mechanical components.
The manufacturing process involves encapsulating plutonium-238 pellets within a protective casing to ensure safety and prevent leakage. Thermocouples are then attached to the pellets to convert heat into electricity.
The build process includes precise assembly, rigorous testing for durability and safety, and extensive quality control measures to ensure reliability over extended periods.
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