AcTOR: Aircraft Trajectory Optimization Resolver

Sonalysts will apply user-centered design principles to develop an Air Traffic Management (ATM) decision support tool, called Aircraft Trajectory Optimization Resolver (AcTOR). AcTOR will demonstrate the feasibility of incorporating varied performance characteristics of near-future vehicles into an optimization system for trajectory conflict resolution. AcTOR will enable future integration of unconventional operations (unmanned vehicles, space vehicles, supersonic vehicles) into the National Airspace System. Sonalysts will conduct a Targeted Ideation Development Event (TIDE) with Air Traffic Control (ATC) operators as participants to brainstorm and refine novel design ideas for a User Interface (UI) to control the near future airspace environment. Sonalysts will rapidly prototype a UI based on these design guidelines to deliver a proof-of-concept for the overall system.

This research is directly related to NASA’s Airspace Operations and Safety Program (AOSP). Successful completion of Phase I will advance the state of the art in ATM operations research. Additionally, this work will support the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Traffic Management (UTM) project goal of eventual integration of UAS into controlled airspace. Finally, completion of Phase I will further the research partnership between NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The European Union and other developed countries are making significant investments into ATM infrastructure. Both public and private Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) are seeking advanced solutions for future decision support systems. The software proof-of-concept could mature into a competitive alternative to existing commercial ATM solutions.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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