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| A '''Radioisotope thermoelectric generator''' (RTG) is a type of [[atomic battery]] which generates [[electricity]] from heat generated by the decay of radioactive material. [[thermocouple|Thermocouples]] are generally used for the energy conversion, though [[heat engine|heat engines]] could convert the heat directly into mechanical energy to be used as-is or converted into electricity.
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| ==Benefit to Martian Settlement==
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| ===Reliable Power===
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| RTGs offer reliable power to a [[settlement]]. While the available energy decreases over time, it is steady. This is in contrast to [[solar panel|solar]] or [[wind turbine|wind]] power, which vary based on the weather.
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| ===Low Maintenance===
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| RTGs are a low maintenance power source, as evidenced by their use in space probes and unmanned locations on [[Earth]].
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| ==Challenges==
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| ===Useful Life===
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| The useful life of an RTG is limited both by the [[half life]] of the radioactive material and the [[wear lifespan]] of the energy conversion hardware.
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| ===Hazard to Life===
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| The [[radiation]] emitted by the RTG pose a hazard to life. Shielding and an isolated location should be sufficient to protect settlements.
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| ==Open Issues==
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| * Are there significant quantities of radioactive material available on Mars?
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| [[category:technology]]
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| [[Category: Energy]]
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