Low Cost APS Star Tracker for Suborbital Projects

Completed TRL 3 (started at 3, targeting 4)

Description

Use LRS design and code base as foundation Use lower cost non rad hard parts Add in star tracking algorithms for Lost In Space (LIS) and autonomous star tracker Goal of a breadboard APSstar tracker with night sky tests showing LIS solution and tracking

Details

Technology area	Communications, Navigation, and Orbital Debris Tracking and Characterization Systems > Optical Communications > Pointing, Acquisition, and Tracking Techniques and Technologies
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2011-09-01
End date	2012-09-30

Project contacts

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

Wayne R Powell — wayne.r.powell@nasa.gov
Scott E Heatwole — scott.e.heatwole@nasa.gov
Kenneth E Hall — kenneth.e.hall@nasa.gov
Michael C Fritsch — michael.c.fritsch@nasa.gov
Robert W Moss — robert.w.moss@nasa.gov
Thomas E Correll — thomas.e.correll@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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.