ISRU Reactant, Fuel Cell Based Power Plant for Robotic and Human Mobile Exploration Applications

Three basic power generation system concepts are generally considered for lander, rover, and Extra‐Vehicular Activity (EVA) assistant applications for robotic and human Moon and Mars exploration missions. The most common power system considered is the solar array and battery system. While relatively simple and successful, solar array/battery systems have some serious limitations for mobile applications. For typical rover applications, these limitations include relatively low total energy storage capabilities, daylight only operating times (6 to 8 hours on Mars), relatively short operating lives depending on the operating environment, and rover/lander size and surface use constraints. Radioisotope power systems are being reconsidered for long‐range science missions. Unfortunately, the high cost, political controversy, and launch difficulties that are associated with nuclear‐based power systems suggests that the use of radioisotope powered landers, rovers, and EVA assistants will be limited. The third power...