Nuclear safety calculations for heatpipe power system reactors

Misperceptions continue to exist about the safety of space nuclear systems-both with reactors and radioisotope systems. Frequently engineers do not bother to sufficiently explain the risk, because it is obvious to them that the risks are inconsequential and that their time can be spent in more productive ways. This paper attempts; to quantify some of the nuclear risks associated with two space reactor concepts. The paper does not perform a detailed risk assessment; it merely provides information and data that serves as evidence that the risk to personnel and the public are minimal. The reactor concepts evaluated are Heatpipe Power System (HPS) reactors-the HOMER-15, a Mars surface reactor, and the SAFE-400, a space power reactor. The study concludes that these reactors do not pose any credible risk to personnel or the public.