Qualification and Integration Tests of the Colorado Power Electronics Prototype Development Unit Power Processing Unit with NASA and Commercial Hall Thrusters (PPUP)

Colorado Power Electronics partnered with GRC to mature power processing unit technology that extends the operating range of Hall thrusters, which are primarily used on Earth orbiting satellites and can also be used for deep space missions. By integrating their technology with NASA and commercial Hall thrusters, the company expects to provide a propulsion system that can significantly increase mission payload or extend mission durations.

This effort will advance the technical maturity and operational readiness of the prototype Power Processing Unit. A variable input/output PPU significantly expands performance of an electric propulsion system which can be used for space travel to Mars and other distant destinations.

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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