Animal Tracker Ground Station (Mote) - Tag Testing

The Animal Tracker Ground Station demonstration is a collaboration between NASA and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to develop an advanced monitoring network for large marine species and eventually for use in deep space surface tracking. This data tracking currently supports efficient resource management in federal waters. Through high-altitude balloon testing, researchers can determine the technology’s viability for use with small satellites in low-Earth orbit. During the first flight test, the research team successfully collected data on the range capabilities of a tracking ground station flown as a high-altitude balloon payload.

This technology will enable a cost-effective means of tracking tags for large marine animals with stratospheric assets connected to CubeSats. Not only does this technology augment animal tracking data for BOEM and other researchers, but it could also be used in surface tracking on exploration missions to the Moon or Mars. This would benefit NASA missions, the commercial space industry, other government agencies, and the nation. Future Customers • Surface tracking for NASA deep space exploration missions • Government agencies such as BOEM, United States Geological Survey, and the Office of Naval Research • Other animal science and environmental research

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.