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Completed TRL 5 (started at 5, targeting 7)
Researchers are adapting technology from NASA’s Europa Clipper mission to build a low-cost, reliable system for lunar radiation hazard identification and characterization. The system includes the JANUS integration and monitoring system (including accelerometers, 3D magnetic field measurement fluxgate magnetometer, and pressure/temperature sensors) and the Plasma Instrument for Magnetic Sounding (PIMS) to measure lower energy (<100 eV) charged particles. It aims to provide hazard identification and monitoring at specific lunar landing sites. At suborbital altitudes, it may enable routine observations essential for studying Earth’s atmosphere.
Problem Statement
This innovation is being developed to serve as a low-cost means of providing the required lunar surface environmental hazard characterization and monitoring at each specific landing site. The objective of this experiment is to successfully integrate the JANUS-PIMS payload and to record and analyze charged particle distributions, magnetic field configuration, temperature, and vibration/acceleration.
Technology Maturation
This technology will advance from TRL 5 to 7 for lunar operations upon successful completion of the experiment. Success will establish a low-cost, reliable method of characterizing local lunar surface radiation and magnetic field environments.
This robust system combines a proven sensor and powerful monitoring system in one complete, self-contained package. It promises insight into how crustal magnetic fields impact local radiation while employing legacy technology already developed for NASA missions to minimize costs. This would benefit future NASA missions, the commercial space industries, and other government agencies.
Future Customers
• NASA and commercial lunar lander and rover missions/activities
• Cislunar commercial and government activities
• Earth atmospheric studies
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
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.
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