On Nov 18, 12:37*am, Chris L Peterson wrote:
On Wed, 17 Nov 2010 21:59:48 -0600, Rich wrote:
Solar power SUCKS. *Nuclear plutonium batteries in space probes are 1000x
better. *

That is a lousy generalization. Which is best depends entirely on the
specific mission goals. Many spacecraft use these sorts of nuclear power
generators. They are regularly opposed by a very small contingent of
extremists, who are not characteristic of most people who are concerned
about environmental responsibility. AFAIK, these folks have never
derailed or even stalled a mission. They may even provide a service, by
providing some pressure that ensures these things really are designed to
survive a launch failure.

LOL.

There were several accidents involving nuclear-equipped spacecraft
with what seem to have been, in retrospect, benign outcomes WRT
nuclear contamination. These occurred before the Cassini and New
Horizons protests. The engineers were well aware of potential dangers
and designed accordingly, without input from the protesters.