CEPS – A Compact Electron-Proton Spectrometer for Moon Surface Space Weather Monitoring and Crew Protection Year 2 of 3

Completed TRL 5 (started at 4, targeting 5)

Description

Prove out the use of CdTe Timepix sensors for a new class of low mass / low power space weather sensor. Specifically, develop advanced technology of a small-footprint sensor that can be carried by crew members on the lunar surface. This project builds on TRL 9 Timepix technology to develop the capability to measure electrons and protons concurrently.

Benefits

Increase TRL of CdTe sensor to 5. Small low-power sensor needed to feed space weather forecasting models at crew location.

Details

Technology area	Human Health, Life Support, and Habitation Systems
Program	Center Innovation Fund: JSC CIF (JSC CIF)
Lead organization	Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX
Start date	2022-10-01
End date	2023-09-30

Project contacts

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

Dan J Fry — dan.j.fry@nasa.gov
Stuart P George — stuart.p.george@nasa.gov

How to get involved

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.