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Hydrogen Electrical Power System (HEPS) (HEPS)

Completed TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 6)

Description

Teledyne’s hydrogen electrical power system is a fuel cell technology designed to be a cost-effective energy storage system that can integrate with a lunar habitat. Tests aim to qualify the technology in a space environment and validate its functionality; data from flights could contribute to the system’s ability to survive a lunar night. This has the potential to benefit NASA missions, the commercial space industry, and other government agencies.

Summary of September 18, 2025 Flight Test
Teledyne Energy Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, launched its Hydrogen Electrical Power System (HEPS) fuel cell aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket through NASA’s Tipping Point opportunity. Launched successfully on September 18th, this flight advances fuel cell technology for future lunar and deep space missions.

HEPS is designed to deliver efficient, scalable, air-independent power for lunar habitats and surface operations, capable of surviving lunar night and functioning autonomously in microgravity. This flight tested the HEPS’ power generation, thermal management, and resilience to space conditions. Results will guide future integration into lunar and Mars infrastructure.

Teledyne’s Tipping Point project, which is managed by NASA’s Flight Opportunities program within the Space Technology Mission Directorate, will help inform NASA’s plans for sustainable lunar exploration through missions like Artemis.

Benefits

- In-situ integration: Accounts for varying challenging aspects of the Lunar environment
- Efficient and economical: Allows for reduced launch mass and robust human habitation

Details

Technology areaAerospace Power and Energy Storage > Power Generation and Energy Conversion > Photovoltaic Electrical Power
ProgramFlight Opportunities (FO)
Lead organizationTeledyne Energy Systems, Inc., Hunt Valley, MD
Start date2020-10-01
End date2025-10-31

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

How to get involved

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.

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.