TOPAZ-2'' thermionic space nuclear power system and the perspectives of its development

This paper describes characteristics of the TOPAZ Reactors for space power applications developed in the USSR. TOPAZ‐2 has been shown to be useful for satellites and for lunar or Martian bases. It can be coupled with a Stirling engine. TOPAZ‐3 reactor provides greater power levels while TOPAZ‐4 has an improved multicell thermionic fuel element. (AIP)