Integrating Exploration Portable Electrostatic Detector with Desert Research and Technology Studies (DRATS) (xPED)

Completed TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 5)

Description

Determine optimal placement for future integration of xPED on DRATS rovers and space suits. Continue modification and miniaturization of xPED for multiple applications. While roving, the astronauts must be able to measure their charge and dissipate to avoid discharge hazards and also reduce the dust attraction/adhesion hazard. xPED will allow them to determine their charged state and avoid hazards, as well as characterize the electrical environment.

The current electrometer design will be improved and miniaturized using SMT parts and the digital storage capability will be added.

Benefits

The avoidance of hazards associated with charge buildup, including discharge, dust adhesion, and destruction of equipment. This device also allows more flexibility for direct involvement on future missions concerned about the local environment. Another benefit is the involvement of GSFC on more exploration-oriented activities.

Details

Technology area	Exploration Destination Systems > Mission Infrastructure, Sustainability, and Supportability > Particulate Contamination Prevention and Mitigation
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2011-10-01
End date	2012-09-30

Project contacts

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

Brook Lakew — brook.lakew@nasa.gov
Telana L Jackson — telana.l.jackson@nasa.gov
Eduardo Linan — eduardo.linan@nasa.gov
Lora V Bleacher — lora.v.bleacher@nasa.gov
Robyn L King — robyn.l.king@nasa.gov
Tawanda Jacobs — tawanda.jacobs@nasa.gov
William M Farrell

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.