Increased Space Power System Output Through Addition of an Oracle Power Conversion System

A modified ORACLE (organic Rankine cycle) power conversion system (PCS) is evaluated for use in combination with either a SNAP-8 or a thermoelectric power conversion system. Waste heat from either the SNAP-8 or thermoelectric (TE) PCS is used by the organic PCS to increase power output without increasing the power input. A large increase in output power is attained, but greater radiator area is required because of the lower radiator temperature.