Award Data

The underlying framework for modern-day weather forecasting is numerical weather prediction (NWP). Even the current and planned weather observing platforms leave gaps that are insufficient to meet the requirements of NWP. Mano Nanotechnologies, Inc. proposes a new environmental sensing system, known as “GlobalSense”, which will enable transformational forecast improvements by filing these crit ...

The Phase II project will develop a suite of diagnostic sensors using Direct Write technology to measure temperature, surface recession depth, and heat flux of an ablative thermal protection system (TPS) in real time, which can be integrated to support TPS evaluation and in-situ diagnostics during planetary entry. Standalone heat flux sensors and those fabricated by direct deposition will be deve ...

NOHMs propose to develop, demonstrate, and deliver high energy, lightweight, safe lithium sulfur (Li-S) batteries for use in space applications. During the Phase II project, NOHMs Technologies pursue approaches for enhancing energy density, safety, and manufacturability of larger-format pouch cells based on the most promising electrode and electrolyte compositions identified in Phase 1. We will de ...

Monolithic freeform telescopes offer the potential to positively address the size, weight and vibration concerns associated with flight telescope systems. We propose to prove feasibility that our optics manufacturing process is capable of producing of a freeform optical telescope system by manufacturing and testing four optical surfaces on four sides of a single high purity optical material. The r ...

The goal of this NASA SBIR Phase I study is to determine the feasibility of measuring precision (fractional wave) freeform optics using non-contact areal (imaging) optical sensors measuring slope data. Fabrication of a physical "test plate" for each freeform design is impractical and cost prohibitive. Nevertheless, surfaces must be inspected while the part is still fixed or blocked (one surface e ...

Honeybee Robotics proposes to miniaturize a heritage spaceflight motor controller using System-in-Package technology. This motor controller will be a universal solution for the control of BLDC, PMSM, and microstepping motors in robotic space systems and orbital instruments, with a form factor at least 75% smaller than comparable units.

Under previous SBIR Phase 1, we demonstrated MISME system to TRL 3. This system can be used on Mars, the Moon, as well as Asteroids (a Spider concept with self- anchoring approach was developed). We propose to focus this Phase I on the two approaches of water extraction: Sniffer and Corer. At the end of the Phase 1, we will trade all 3: Sniffer, Corer, MISME and select one for further development ...

Final Frontier Design's (FFD) High Pressure EVA Glove (HPEG) is a game changing technology enabling future exploration class space missions. The high operating pressure allows astronauts to conduct EVAs without a pre breathe penalty, greatly increasing efficiency. The HPEG increases astronaut comfort and reduces fatigue by allowing for a large Range of Motion with low joint torque throughout. I ...

In Phase 2 we will develop a fully integrated, autonomous free-flying robotic system based on a commercial SkyJib quadcopter, and demonstrate flying straight and level to a target location, acquisition of rock and regolith samples, and return to the point of origin. The work plan for Phase 2 is as follows: 1. Completion of the Guidance, Navigation, Control, Vision, and Sample Acquisition subsyste ...

The paradigm of exploration is changing. Smaller, smarter, and more efficient systems are being developed that could do as well as large, expensive, and heavy systems in the past. The 'science' fiction becomes reality fueled by advances in computing, materials, and nano-technology. These new technologies found their way into CubeSats – a booming business in the 21st century. CubeSats are no l ...