Test Results of Ya-21u Thermionic Space Power System

The Soviet-made TOPAZ-II space nuclear power system unit designated Ya-21u underwent a total of 15 tests both in the Union of Soviet Socialist Republic (USSR) (1989–1990) and in the United States (August 1993 to March 1995) for a cumulative test/operation time of 7681 h at conditions far exceeding design limits. These tests included steady-state operation at different power levels, fast start-ups and power optimizations, and shock and vibration tests. Test results are presented and analyzed. Results indicate a gradual change in the performance parameters such as the optimum cesium pressure and optimum load voltage. The electric power and conversion efficiency of the unit at an input thermal power of 105 kW decreased from 3.7 kW(electric) and 4% in the test in the USSR to 2.13 kW(electric) and 2.3 % in the last test in the United States. A discussion and qualitative assessment of potential causes of the performance changes of the Ya-21u unit are given.