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Completed TRL 6 (started at 4, targeting 6)
The primary objective of this flight demonstration on Blue Origin is to develop and test an external environment access payload accommodation facility. The enhancement consists of the JANUS integration platform modified with an aerogel collector system to be mounted on the upper ring of the Propulsion Module (PM).
Problem Statement
To date, relatively little in situ observations and sampling exist for suborbital space at 80-100 km altitudes despite this being a critical region where the atmosphere (collisional) transitions to space (non-collisional). What little data exists was derived from infrequent and relatively expensive sounding rockets. Once established, this capability will open up a new era of discovery in this region by providing unprecedented insight into suborbital space impacting many Earth based and geoscience missions requiring scientific measurements.
Technology Maturation
The key test objectives are to successfully mount the payload on the vehicle, successfully fly and retrieve it, and record and analyze (for suitability of external access location) temperature, vibration/acceleration and particle distribution.
• Utility: Works across multiple science and engineering measurements
• Innovative: Allows technologies to be demonstrated in an in-space environment
• Efficient: OTS components allow for low cost
Future Customers
Instrument development/testing and technology demonstration programs supporting Earth based missions but also all planetary missions and commercial ventures where this environment is at least partially applicable. Virtually any mission or commercial application that requires external access at 100 km altitudes or below will be enabled.
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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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