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Space Exploration: Power Sources for Deep Space Probes

NSIAD-98-102 Published: May 29, 1998. Publicly Released: May 29, 1998.
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Highlights

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the use of nuclear power systems for the Cassini spacecraft and other space missions, focusing on: (1) the processes the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) used to assess the safety and environmental risks associated with the Cassini mission; (2) NASA's efforts to consider the use of a non-nuclear power source for the Cassini mission; (3) the federal investment associated with the development of non-nuclear power sources for deep space missions; and (4) NASA's planned future nuclear-powered space missions.

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Aerospace researchEnergy researchEnvironmental impact statementsNuclear propulsionHazardous substancesNuclear energyRadioactive wastesSafety standardsSpace explorationSpace exploration vehicle