Data Telemetry Package Powered by Strontium-90 Fueled Generator. Final Report

• Other Authors: United States. Department of Energy.
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Published: Martin Company. Nuclear Division. 1961
• Subjects: Power; Nesdps Office Of Nuclear Energy Space And Defense Power Systems; Electronic Equipment; Pressure; Digital Systems; Low Temperature; Uses; Thermoelectric Cells; Radioactivity; Air; Meteorology; Thermoelectricity; Communications; Velocity; Wind; Recording Systems; Space Applications And Technology; Frequency; Batteries; Planning; Strontium 90; Earth; Quantity Ratio; Temperature; Zones Nesdps Office Of Nuclear Energy Space And Defense Power Systems; Telemetry; Remote Control; Measured Values; Arctic; Axel Heiberg Island; Heiberg
• Online Access: https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1057683/

An automatic, nuclear powered, meteorological data transmitting radio station was designed and fabricated for unattended service at a remote Arctic location. The system automatically measures air temperature, barometric pressure, wind direction, and two wind speed averages- Once every three hours it transmits this data in binary digital form, on two frequencies, to a manned receiving station (also designed as a part of this contract) where it is recorded on a two-channel recorder. Temperature, wind direction and barometric pressure are read at the instant of transmission; wind speed is averaged during an eightminute interval and a one-minute interval immediately preceding transmission. A five-watt thermoelectric generator was designed, manufactured and electrically tested for a period of 8.5 months. In May 196l, the generator was fueled with a capsule containing 17,500 curies of Sr/sup 90/. Electrical performance tests were conducted with the integrated system of generator, converter and batteries prior to isotope loading and also after Sr/sup 90/ fueling operations. Weather station compatibility tests were performed in June 1961 and the complete power supply and station housing were packaged for overseas shipment in July 1961. Current residence of the Sr/sup 90/ generator is on Axel Heiberg Island in the Arctic region. (auth)