Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Heath, C. A..
Power supply design for unmanned electric propulsion missions to outer planets utilizes a store of curium-244 in compact array of capsules as energy source. Supply subassemblies are: heat source, converter equipment which supplies power, and safety equipment. System is designed for a 72,000 hour mission.
The application of a thermionic reactor power system to the modular space station is described. The nominal net power is 40 kWe, with the power system designed to be applicable over the power range from 25 to 60 kWe. The power system is designed to be launched by the space shuttle. Radiation protection is provided by LiH neutron shielding and W gamma shielding in a shaped 4 pion configuration, i.e., the reactor is shielded on all sides but not to equal extent. Isodose contours are presented for the region around the modular space station. Levels and spectral distribution of radiation are given for later evaluation of effects on space station experiments. Parametric data on the effects of separation distance on power system mass are presented.
Radioisotope thermionic power supply for unmanned electric propulsion missions to outer planets, using 69 modules consisting of thermionic converter and emitter heat pipe
Design parameters influence on size, mass, and reliability of thermionic reactors for electric propulsion
Parametric study of in-core thermionic power plants for electric propulsion, describing factors affecting transmission lines and power conditioning equipment
Development of nuclear thermionic space power system using thermionic diodes, and heat pipe flow for temperature control
Thermionic generator power system using reactor heat source connected to external thermionic diodes by heat pipes, noting reactor control
Control system concept using helium 3 in water- moderated reactor
Reactor heat pipe flow system with external diode for thermionic generator power supply
Control of water moderated nuclear reactor using neutron absorbing helium 3 gas control elements
Control system for water moderated reactor using helium-3 gas