Plutonium powered spacecraft to launch for Pluto

[joephys]

Since physics is my thing I really wanna explain stuff, but it usually just annoys people. I'll bite my lip.

 

[wesleydnunder]

Okay. The RTG is providing power for the probe electronics and is not used for propulsion? Joephys, If an explanation annoys someone they can hit "ignore". Please elucidate.

Mark

 

[Corax]

well i guess its safe to say that it will be 10 years before we have to listen over and over on the news about it like the mars rover. should be interesting at any rate.

Personally, I've found the Mars rover program to be fascinating. They've survived months beyond what was ever hoped for, and are still going. The exploration of an alien world is a tremendous step for mankind, for better or worse. However, if you don't like it, change the channel.

 

[reality]

physics is just a hobby for me (and it annoys me)
here's a link for some info on the craft:
http://pluto.jhuapl.edu/spacecraft/overview.html
http://pluto.jhuapl.edu/spacecraft/power.php
http://pluto.jhuapl.edu/common/content/pdfs/NHRTG_FS_100804.pdf
pretty cool none the less

 

[wesleydnunder]

Thanks, reality. Fascinating.

Mark