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Completed TRL 6 (started at 4, targeting 6)
HIAD Hydrogen Gas Generator (H2G2) is an ACO with Anasphere, Inc. Anasphere is developing a pyrotechnical hydrogen gas generator for the zero-G environment. Gas generators are used to inflate aerodynamic decelerators for large planetary landers. The Anasphere gas generator would be more mass and volume-efficient than current gas generators Anasphere will partner with Marshall to test a compact hydrogen generator for inflating heat shields, which could help deliver larger payloads to Mars
Successful completion of these tests will ready this inflatable technology for flight tests. Ultimately, this technology can be used to safely descend payloads into other terrestrial atmospheres.
The data obtained will help the further development and maturing to the technology to eventually achieve flight worthiness. The application for Solar System exploration of these types of generators is significant. In the Entry, Descent and Landing (EDL) field will allow the delivery of bigger payloads to planetary bodies with atmospheres at a lower cost, simplicity and storability typical of solid systems.
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — 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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