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Autonomous Landing & Hazard Avoidance Technology (ALHAT)

Completed TRL 6 (started at 5, targeting 6)

Description

Develop and mature to TRL 6 an autonomous lunar landing GN&C and sensing system (ALHAT System) for crewed and un-crewed lunar descent and landing vehicles. The System will be capable of identifying and avoiding surface hazards to enable a safe precision landing to within tens of meters of certified and designated landing sites, anywhere on the Moon, under any lighting conditions

Benefits

This system will enable precision landing for crewed or un-crewed descent vehicles by autonomously identifying and avoiding surface hazards landing. This end-to-end autonomous guidance, navigation, and control system, once demonstrated, can be used in operational systems to enhance terrestrial landings and exploration of the moon, Mars and other terrestrial objects.

Details

Technology areaEntry, Descent, and Landing > Flight Mechanics and GN&C for Entry, Descent, and Safe Precise Landing
ProgramTechnology Demonstration Missions (TDM)
Lead organizationJohnson Space Center, Houston, TX
Start date2011-10-01
End date2014-09-30

Project contacts

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How to get involved

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.

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