Cassini's RTGs undergo mechanical and electrical verification testing in the PHSF

[KSC-97PC-1066]

  • Photo Number: KSC-97PC-1066

  • Release Date: 18-Jul-1997

    • Description: Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) engineers examine the interface surface on the Cassini spacecraft prior to installation of the third radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG). The other two RTGs, at left, already are installed on Cassini. The three RTGs will be used to power Cassini on its mission to the Saturnian system. They are undergoing mechanical and electrical verification testing in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility. RTGs use heat from the natural decay of plutonium to generate electric power. The generators enable spacecraft to operate far from the Sun where solar power systems are not feasible. The Cassini mission is scheduled for an Oct. 6 launch aboard a Titan IVB/Centaur expendable launch vehicle. Cassini is built and managed for NASA by JPL.

    Resolution Format Width
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    Thumbnail GIF 67 100 10231
    Slide GIF 111 156 25115
    Low GIF 160 240 30794
    Medium JPEG 512 768 94315
    High JPEG 1521 2280 929101

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    Last Updated: Tuesday August 28 14:47:43 EDT 2001 (Kay Grinter)

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