Autonomous Sampling Technology for Biological Research During Suborbital Rocket Flight

The Autonomous Technology for Research in Suborbital Microgravity (ATOM) aims to enable second-by-second testing of biological changes during launch, flight, and landing. About the size of a 2-liter soda bottle, this battery-powered device automatically collects and deposits a sample into a well containing a preservative. ATOM then rotates so another well can receive a subsequent sample. By analyzing these collections against data from acceleration, temperature, and pressure sensors, ATOM may help researchers identify when during flight any changes to the sample occurred. Problem Statement This technology is designed to fill the need for a biological sampling device that can capture second-by-second biological changes and link them to the different stages of suborbital rocket flight. This technology is hands-free and could detect even small changes in any biological sample during very short suborbital flight. It is customizable and has the potential for future development that includes solar-powered, on-board analysis and data transfer back to Earth. This experiment will determine if the device in a flight environment is capable of accurately collecting samples that can be later assessed in lab. Technology Maturation Currently at TRL 4, this technology has an anticipated TRL of 6-7 following a successful demonstration.

This technology captures time-stamped data in real time. It offers hands-free sample collection and provides customizable operation in a small, reusable package. This would benefit future NASA missions and the commercial space industry. Future Customers • Biological research in low-Earth orbit • International Space Station experiments • Human exploration missions • Academic and industry experiments

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.

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.