Tritium Betavoltaic Cells Aim to Support Future Lunar Bases Testing aboard an orbiting CubeSat is a

[Marlin]

Tritium Betavoltaic Cells Aim to Support Future Lunar Bases Testing aboard an orbiting CubeSat is a first for the technology

https://spectrum.ieee.org/tritium-nuclear-battery

[Core Content]

Could Tritium Batteries Be the Key to Surviving the Long Lunar Night?

The BOHR CubeSat, launched on July 7, is currently testing tritium-based betavoltaic batteries in low Earth orbit. Developed by City Labs, the satellite uses 48 nuclear cells to power onboard sensors. This mission marks the first time this specific nuclear battery technology has been deployed and evaluated in a space environment.

Betavoltaic cells generate electricity by converting beta radiation from tritium decay into current using semiconductor layers. While these batteries produce significantly less power than traditional plutonium-based radioisotope generators, they offer a compact, long-lasting energy source capable of operating in extreme temperatures. This technology could eventually support lunar infrastructure by providing consistent, low-power electricity for sensors and equipment during long periods of darkness.

Testing aboard an orbiting CubeSat is a first for the technology

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https://spectrum.ieee.org/tritium-nuclear-battery