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SPACECRAFTangles; a repetition of the analysis presented here at nozzle vector angles up to 15° would be required to explore this potential. This paper represents a comparative analysis of some of the technical considerations surrounding the use of Cm-244 and Pu-238 heat sources in radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs). The principal considerations include radiological shielding, ground handling, and generator performance characteristics. The paper also describes a novel approach to RTG design and qualification which would facilitate the use of Cm-244 heat sources. This approach, which involves hermetically staled bellows-encapsulated thermoelectric elements, also features the potential for increased generator output pctwer stability and reliability and lower converter costs accruing from the advantages of a standardised approach to generator design, fabrication, and qualification.

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