A Reduced gravity Chilldown and Transfer Investigation using Cryogens (ARCTIC)

The Reduced Gravity Cryogenic Transfer Project will investigate three chilldown and two liquid injection methods for chilling and filling cryogenic tanks in a low-gravity environment. Researchers also plan to collect data on flow visualization, pressure, temperature, and flow produced during cryogenic propellant transfers. Information gathered during these parabolic flights could provide the data and operational experience necessary to advance in-space cryogenic transfer processes.

Microgravity cryogenic transfers enable Lunar or Martian ascent or descent stages, upper stages, and aggregation/depots Efficient cryogenic fluid transfer methods will reduce the amount of propellant consumed or time needed for chilldown of tanks LN2 tank chilldown tests performed onboard parabolic flights will yield data and operational experience in microgravity environment to mature in-space cryogenic transfer

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.