Zero G Mass Measurement Device (ZGMMD)

The Zero Gravity Mass Measurement Device (ZGMMD) provides the ability to measure the mass of samples in a microgravity environment, like that found on the International Space Station (ISS). One of the primary measurements often taken during science experiments is mass. This is even more relevant in biology, where mass is often one of the key measurements taken for analysis. During the Phase I effort, a ZGMMD prototype was developed, tested, and demonstrated the feasibility of a means to determine the mass of samples less than 1kg, without the use of earth's gravity. The ZGMMD's innovative way of determining the mass, of low mass objects, in microgravity environments has been shown to be feasible, and effective. The Phase I prototype has shown to be able to provide great mass measurement capabilities, exceeding the Phase I requirements, specifically in accuracy and precision.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.