Prompt Cast
The Importance of Plutonium-238 in Space Exploration
TLDR Plutonium-238 is a highly radioactive and toxic element that is essential for deep space probes due to its ability to provide power for decades without external energy. It is the only practical isotope that can power a Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG), making it the preferred power source for spacecraft beyond Mars.
Timestamped Summary
00:00
Plutonium is a non-natural element with atomic number 94, discovered in 1940 by Glenn Seaborg, and is discussed in this episode of the podcast.
02:03
Plutonium, element 94, was created by bombarding uranium with deuterium and is not considered a naturally occurring element, although there are trace amounts found on the ocean floor and through the natural decay of uranium.
03:47
Plutonium-238 is created through a series of nuclear reactions and has different properties and uses compared to plutonium-239, including being highly radioactive and toxic.
05:35
Plutonium-239 is highly toxic, radioactive, and can burst into flames, but it is used for nuclear weapons because it is more fissile than uranium-235.
07:26
Plutonium-238, with its high radioactivity and long-lasting heat, is essential for deep space probes because it can provide power for decades without the need for external energy.
09:08
Plutonium-238 is the only practical isotope that can power a Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG), which converts heat to electricity, making it the preferred power source for spacecraft beyond Mars due to the lack of sunlight.
10:51
Plutonium-238 is extremely valuable and difficult to produce, but it is necessary for exploring the outer solar system and powering spacecraft beyond Mars.
