RTG is a Radio-isotope Thermo-electric Generator. It uses the heat generated by the decay of a radioactive material to generate power. Often the heat as well, to hold off the cold temperatures in space or other planets.
RTG is a Radio-isotope Thermo-electric Generator. It uses the heat generated by the decay of a radioactive material, typically Plutonium (Pu238) to generate power.
For missions beyond the asteroid belt, solar panels stop being as effective, due to reduced concentration of solar power. Thus RTGs are commonly chosen for such missions.
