Radioisotope battery

as a new type of power source

was developed in 1960s.It is advantageous in terms of long working life

high reliability

flexibility to rugged environment

maintenance free

and high capacity rate

hence its unique applications in space

isolated terrestrial or ocean spots

deep waters

and medicine.In this paper

we analysz the primary performances and classification of radioisotope thermoelectric generator

as well as characteristic

basic principle

and structure of radioisotope thermoelectric generator(RTG)

which is the most popular in application of radioisotope battery in space

undersea

terrestrial and medicine.A prospect for development and application of radioisotope battery in the 21st century is given

too.