Lunar multi-Global Navigation Satellite System Receiver (NavCube3-mini, NC3m)

The NavCube3-mini (NC3m) is a compact, multi-frequency, multi-GNSS receiver developed by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. Building upon the Navigator GPS receiver used in the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission, which set a world record for the highest altitude GPS fix, the NC3m is designed to extend GNSS capabilities to lunar and cislunar missions.

n 2022, the NC3m achieved Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL6) after successful testing in simulated environments representing low Earth orbit (LEO), geostationary Earth orbit (GEO), and lunar orbits. The testing included vibration, thermal vacuum, and electromagnetic compatibility assessments, demonstrating the receiver's readiness for spaceflight applications.

The objective of the multi-Global Navigation Satellite System (mGNSS) project is to:

• Develop a low Size, Weight, Power and Cost (SWaP-C) GNSS receiver appropriate for all orbit regimes including cislunar/lunar space
• Qualify the GNSS receiver to TRL 6
• Infuse a lunar capable GNSS receiver into lunar Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) architecture/missions and other novel applications

Operational use of GPS has been demonstrated half-way to the moon on the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission. Lunar GNSS feasibility has been demonstrated through high fidelity simulations conducted by the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program.

• Provide precise real-time navigation and timing for LEO, GEO, HEO, and cislunar/lunar space missions to enable guidance, navigation, and control (GN&C) and science
• Leverage existing always-on Earth-based infrastructure for navigation and timing
• Reduce network loading and increase onboard mission capability
• Enable crewed autonomous navigation and timing in the event of loss of communication
• Enable real-time, precise on-board PNT distribution
• Reduce risk for commercial development and operation
• Maintain hardware-in-the-loop simulation, development, testing capabilities

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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.

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.