Overview:

NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) is seeking to identify U.S.-based commercial entities with space technology capabilities between 3-5 TRL across three domains: GO (Space Transportation), LAND (Surface Access), and ENABLE (Foundational Capabilities). NASA is seeking partners for strategic collaborations through Announcement of Collaboration Opportunity (ACO) partnerships.

 

Background:

NASA uses collaborative industry partnerships to leverage commercial capabilities and accelerate development across technology shortfalls across key domains necessary for future exploration, science, and missions.

Under the unfunded Space Act Agreements, NASA contributes facilities*, technical expertise, hardware, and software resources, data, analysis, etc. This collaborative approach allows NASA to advance technological development alongside commercial entities without direct financial investment. Recent ACO partnerships have supported lunar rover tire testing, robotic power system development, and in-space propellant transfer technologies.

 

Technology Domains of Interest:

GO Domain (Space Transportation)

• Advanced propulsion systems (nuclear, electric)
• Cryogenic fluid management and storage

LAND Domain (Surface Access)

• Entry, descent, and landing systems
• Guidance and navigation systems
• Environmental monitoring

ENABLE Domain (Foundational Capabilities)

• Advanced materials, structures, and manufacturing
• Advanced power and thermal management
• Autonomous systems and robotics
• Avionics and sensors

Possible Solution Areas:

• Advanced energy storage and management systems
• Intelligent automation and control technologies
• High-performance materials and manufacturing processes
• Guidance and sensing technologies
• Systems for extreme environment operations
• Thermal protection systems for planetary entry vehicles

Desired outcome:

To build a network of companies who are interested in using NASA resources for commercial development. NASA is also looking to understand current hurdles and unmet needs in the industry to help bring mid-level TRL to commercial development.  

To be of interest organizations should meet the following criteria:

• Developing technologies aligned with the above STMD Domains (GO, LAND, ENABLE)
• US based for-profit or non-profit organizations
• Developing a current product with a minimum Technology Readiness Level of 3-4
• Demonstrated commitment to commercialization and further development

*Some facilities include: Testing labs, wind tunnels, simulators, and other assets at NASA Ames, NASA Marshall, NASA Langley, NASA Glenn, NASA Goddard, NASA Johnson, etc.

 

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