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Seeking: Precision Metrology for Navigation and Sensing in space-Image of starfiled with light streaks toward viewer

The Office of the Chief Technologist (OCT) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is seeking technologies for precision metrology for navigation and sensing in space. Such technologies will be used to calculate the flight paths, orbits, and trajectories for both absolute and relative positioning in space, as well as for the detection of dark matter and earth-like planets.

Background

NASA is currently preparing for extensive lunar missions, i.e. the Artemis missions, over the coming years with the overall goal of establishing a long-term human presence on the Moon and exploration beyond to Mars and Venus. Through the Science Mission Directorate, NASA is also seeking to enhance sensor capabilities to support earth science, planetary science, heliophysics, and astrophysics.  The current existing class of navigational sensors have drawbacks and constraints in space, and therefore researchers at NASA are seeking highly precise next-generation sensing technologies, based on principles such as interferometry and quantum sensing.

Possible Solution Areas

  • Cold atom interferometry
  • Quantum sensing/positioning
  • High performance clocks
  • Medical screening
  • Next generation improvements on current technologies (Accelerometers, GPS, IMUs, LiDARs, Radiofrequency)

 

Desired Outcome of the Solution

NASA is open to different partnership opportunities; partnering with a solution provider with a prototype or commercial technology would be preferable.

 

Related Tech Needs

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Seeking: Voice Communication System for Spacecraft

 

Photo Credit: Casey Horner on Unsplash


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