A multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generator (MMRTG) for Mars 2020

The production of radioisotope power systems (RPS) has been an ongoing endeavor for the U.S. Department of Energy and its predecessor agencies for the past five decades. The overall mission of the RPS Program is to develop, demonstrate, and deliver compact, safe nuclear power systems and related technologies for use in remote, harsh environments (e.g., space) where more conventional electrical power sources do not work.