Nuclear Batteries Provide Reliable Energy for Space Missions

Nuclear batteries, or radioisotope power systems, generate electricity from the heat released by the natural decay of radioactive isotopes. At Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), scientists are producing key isotopes like plutonium-238—essential fuel for these compact, long-lasting power sources. These batteries are vital for NASA missions, providing resilient, reliable energy in the harsh conditions of deep space where solar power isn’t an option.