Equipment
DOI: 10.1063/1.3057493
A prototype nuclear reactor system designed to generate auxiliary electric power in the kilowatt range for use in space probes is reported to have successfully completed operational ground tests. Known as the “SNAP Experimental Reactor”, it is about the size of a five‐gallon can and weighs about 250 pounds. Fueled with enriched uranium, it is intended for use with thermoelectric converters or miniature turbine generators. The prototype model produces 50 kilowatts of heat at a coolant outlet temperature of 1200 °F. It was developed for the Atomic Energy Commission by Atomics International, a division of North American Aviation, Inc.
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