← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Completed TRL 5 (started at 4, targeting 5)
Maxar developed and demonstrated a bang-bang pressure regulator system (BBPRS) with high propellant flow rate capability for high power Hall thruster propulsion systems. The developed BBPRS was tested with NASA GRC’s 12.5 kW HERMeS Hall thruster at NASA GRC vacuum facility 6. MAXAR developed the BBPRS and performed benchtop tests at MAXAR facilities. The BBPRS was then integrated with a NASA GRC HERMeS thruster to demonstrate its capability in supplying regulated flow to the thruster.
- Increase system robustness by removing the mechanical pressure regulator in the propellant management system
- Lower cost than existing SOA
- Has space flight heritage (@ lower flow rates)
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.
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.