Deep Space Energy provides radioisotope power systems that convert radioactive heat into electricity with 25% efficiency, delivering modular 50 W units that use five times less fuel than traditional RTGs. The single‑piston Stirling converter reduces mechanical complexity, enabling reliable power for lunar night operations, Mars missions, and deep‑space probes.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Deep‑space missions and surface operations on the Moon or Mars often lack reliable sunlight, requiring long‑duration electric power sources that are heavy, inefficient, and prone to mechanical failure. Conventional radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) consume large amounts of radioactive fuel and use complex free‑piston Stirling converters, limiting scalability and mission flexibility.
Solution
Deep Space Energy supplies radioisotope power systems (RPS) that convert radioactive heat into electricity with 25 % conversion efficiency, achieving the same power output with five times less fuel than traditional RTGs. Each modular unit delivers 50 W and employs a single moving piston, reducing mechanical complexity and improving reliability compared with classic dual‑piston designs. The company offers the hardware under a “power‑as‑a‑service” legal framework, retaining responsibility for the regulated radioisotope heat source while customers receive continuous electricity. These systems are engineered to sustain lunar night operations, survive multi‑year Martian dust storms, and power deep‑space probes where solar irradiance is negligible. Development is supported by multiple European Space Agency contracts that validate the converter, explore advanced Sr‑90 fuels, and study hybrid configurations.
Target Audience
Primary customers are space agencies and commercial operators developing lunar surface missions, Mars rovers, and deep‑space science probes that require long‑duration, low‑maintenance electric power.
Features
- 25 % heat‑to‑electricity conversion efficiency, five times less radioactive fuel than legacy RTGs
- Single‑piston Stirling converter that lowers moving‑part count and enhances mechanical reliability
- Modular 50 W design that can be scaled or combined to meet higher power demands
- “Power‑as‑a‑service” model keeps the regulated radioisotope source under the supplier’s control, simplifying compliance for customers
- Capability to operate continuously through 336‑hour lunar night, multi‑year Martian dust storms, and beyond 5 AU where solar power is impractical
- Validated under ESA development contracts, including advanced Sr‑90 fuel and hybrid system studies
- Supports a range of applications: lunar surface science, Mars rover mobility, and deep‑space probe communications and instrumentation