Can hydrogen and helium be used as an energy source for spacecraft?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of using space as an energy source for spacecraft and mentions existing methods such as solar panels and RTGs. It also mentions the idea of using hydrogen and helium as a potential energy source, but notes that it would require advanced fusion technology that is currently beyond our capabilities.
  • #1
Marian246
2
0
Hi.

Does anyone advise me what I can get out from space and use it as energy for spacecraft ?

Thank.

By.
 
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  • #2
Your question is a little unclear. Are you asking what you can harvest from space to use as an energy source for a spacecraft ? If so, then where in space are you asking about? Interplanetary space? Interstellar space? Nebulae? Do you want to know what you can harvest from gas giants, asteroids, comets, etc?
 
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  • #4
Hydrogen and helium, and a lot of it. (It makes over 80% of all atoms in the universe).
 
  • #5
Isaac0427 said:
Hydrogen and helium, and a lot of it. (It makes over 80% of all atoms in the universe).
It's pretty thinly spread out in interstellar space though, not enough there be able to collect it very effectively.
Even if there was enough, in order to use it as a power source you would need some kind of very efficient but light weight fusion technology,
certainly way beyond any technology we can presently foresee.
 
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1. What is the most commonly used energy source for spacecraft?

The most commonly used energy source for spacecraft is solar power. Solar panels are used to convert sunlight into electricity, providing a reliable source of energy for spacecraft.

2. How does solar power work in space?

In space, solar panels are used to collect sunlight and convert it into electricity. The panels are made up of photovoltaic cells, which are made of materials that can turn light into electricity. The electricity is then used to power the spacecraft's systems.

3. Are there any other types of energy sources used for spacecraft?

Yes, there are other types of energy sources used for spacecraft, including nuclear power and fuel cells. Nuclear power uses the heat from the decay of radioactive materials to produce electricity, while fuel cells use a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity.

4. What are the advantages of using solar power for spacecraft?

One of the main advantages of using solar power for spacecraft is that it is a renewable and sustainable source of energy. Solar panels also have a long lifespan and require very little maintenance, making them a reliable choice for powering spacecraft.

5. Can solar power be used for deep space missions?

Yes, solar power can be used for deep space missions. However, as the distance from the sun increases, the amount of sunlight that can be collected decreases. To overcome this, spacecraft can use more efficient solar panels or use other energy sources in combination with solar power.

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