Barbara I. McKissock
Papers
1
Total Citations
7
H-Index
1
About
Barbara I. McKissock is a pioneering figure in space power systems, best known for her foundational work on Stirling Dynamic Isotope Power Systems (DIPS) for robotic space missions. Her key research areas include radioisotope power conversion, free-piston Stirling engine (FPSE) technology, and advanced energy systems for deep-space exploration. McKissock’s major contribution was the design of a multihundred-watt DIPS that integrated the U.S. Department of Energy’s General Purpose Heat Source (GPHS) with small FPSE technology, offering a lower-cost alternative to traditional radioisotope thermoelectric generators. Her 1993 paper, “Design of small Stirling Dynamic Isotope Power System for robotic space missions,” has garnered 7 citations and remains a seminal reference for engineers developing efficient, long-duration power sources for missions beyond Earth. This work laid the groundwork for subsequent Stirling-based power systems, influencing NASA’s later investments in dynamic conversion for planetary exploration. McKissock’s innovative approach to coupling heat sources with Stirling engines helped advance the feasibility of compact, high-efficiency power for robotic spacecraft, marking her as a key contributor to the evolution of space power architecture.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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