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Spire Semiconductor proposes to make an InGaAs-based three-junction (3J) tandem thermophotovoltaic (TPV) cell to utilize more of the blackbody spectrum (from a GPHS) efficiently. Semi-insulating InP wafers will be used for monolithically integrated module (MIM)compatibility and to achieve low free-carrier absorption. In Phase 1, we will design, epitaxially grow, and process large area single junct ...

Future NASA space missions require advanced systems to convert thermal energy into electric power. These systems must be reliable, efficient, and lightweight. In response, we propose to develop an intercooled turbo-Brayton power converter with high efficiency and specific power. The converter will use gas bearings to provide reliable, maintenance-free, long-life operation. It will also consist ...

Future NASA Space Science Missions will incorporate detectors, sensors, shields, and telescopes that must be cooled to cryogenic temperatures. An enabling technology for these missions is advanced cryocoolers that can provide continuous and distributed cooling with minimal input power. On this program, Creare proposes to develop and demonstrate an innovative cryocooler that produces refrigeratio ...

In situ resource utilization (ISRU) is essential for several of NASA's future flagship missions. Currently envisioned ISRU plants include production of oxygen from hydrogen reduction of lunar regolith and extraction of water from Martian regolith or asteroid material. These ISRU processes require heating of the regolith to high reaction temperatures. Once the reaction is complete, most the ...

Environmental control systems for manned exploration spacecraft and lunar/planetary bases will need a condensing heat exchanger (CHX) to control humidity in crew habitat modules. Antimicrobial coatings are needed to prevent growth of microbes and formation of biofilms on the condensing surfaces inside the CHX and maintain a healthy spacecraft environment. Creare has developed a highly adherent, ...

This proposal is responsive to NASA SBIR Topic X10.01, specifically, the need for efficient small- to medium-scale hydrogen liquefaction technologies including domestically produced wet cryogenic turboexpanders. Future NASA missions will require hydrogen liquefaction systems for earth-based, planetary, and lunar surface missions. A critical part of these systems is the cryogenic turboexpanders, ...

Water quality remote sensing has grown to allow for operational monitoring of trophic status, assessment of cyanobacteria blooms, and historical and trend analysis of water quality. Now, with the exponential growth of mobile technologies new opportunities can remove barriers to operational products and interaction by using handheld devices. The innovation of this SBIR is the integration of operati ...

Solid State Scientific Corporation (SSSC) is pleased to propose the design of a single-board, integrated Hostile Fire Indication (HFI) system with the nominal size, weight, and power constraints for operation as an adjunct sensor within the AN/AVR-2B(V) Laser Warning Set. Work on Phase I will consist of the preliminary design of a single circuit board that includes an uncooled, Commercial Off-The ...

Special Warfare Combat Swimmers operate in a hostile environment characterized by excessive physiologic demands and complete reliance on their equipment. Diver safety and situational awareness can be greatly improved by an integrated system capable of monitoring both diver physiologic status and breathing apparatus operation. During the course of this project Creare will develop an Integrated Di ...

Air-launched, small unmanned aerial systems (SUAS) offer the potential for a tremendous increase in airborne sensing and ground support capability. However, breakthrough power technology is needed to enable these systems to reach their potential. We propose to develop a power system designed to meet the extremely challenging performance, operational, and environmental requirements for service on ...