Application of RTG (SiGe) technology to MESUR

This paper discusses providing electrical power for the Mars Environmental Survey (MESUR) mission. The use of radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) technology using SiGe enables total satisfaction of the mission requirements. This technology permits placing the survey landers at any location on Mars, with the capability of transmitting data directly to Earth. If a relay satellite is deployed, the modular construction of the RTG permits tailoring the power to match that mission configuration. Presented are various configurations and trades directed toward achieving operational status, first with a ''pathfinder'' mission and subsequently with the full complement of landers