SP-100, a flexible technology for space power from 10s to 100s of kWe

The US program for developing space reactor power system technology to meet the projected civilian and defense needs for the 1990s and beyond, known as SP-100, is described. The program is intended to remove the restrictions on electrical power generation that have limited space missions and enable the fuller exploration and utilization of space. The flexible system that will provide tens to hundreds of kilowatts of electricity is described and key technology development underway is summarized. A generic flight systems (GFS) design has been completed: it is based on meeting a multimission specification. Actual flight designs fit well within the GFS definition and will be tailored to meet mission-specific scenarios and requirements. The SP-100 Program will validate the technology and components on which the GFS design is based.<>