Modular Fusion Power Generator for Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV)

Avalanche Energy is developing a compact, modular fusion power device called “Orbitron”. Orbitron achieves useful fusion plasma densities via electrostatic fields that trap fusion fuel ions (e.g., deuterium, tritium, He-3, B-11, etc.) in elliptical orbits around a high-voltage cathode. Electrons are introduced and confined via a magnetron electron confinement scheme to overcome the ion space charge density limit. Nuclear fusion occurs when orbiting ions cross paths, producing energetic particles that are harnessed to generate thermal and/or electrical energy. This novel compact fusion reactor does not require large magnets, infrastructure, or massive financial investments, which facilitates rapid iterations of design-build-test cycles for faster development and scalability. Orbitron will provide years of safe, persistent, full-power operation without refueling and generate up to 1 MW of thermal power (~250 kW - 350 kW electric) per module depending on the reactor's size and mode, and the power conversion methods used. Modules may be combined for greater power output. Orbitron is much safer than fission reactors and radioisotope thermoelectric generators and will not contribute to nuclear proliferation. In this Phase I SBIR effort (topic N241-060), Avalanche Energy will create a conceptual design of an uncrewed surface vessel (USV) modular generator system (using Orbitron as the building block power unit) in accordance with the innovations and requirements stated in the topic description.