Characterization of Lunar Polar Volatiles for Curation and ISRU, Year 3

Completed TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 4)

Description

Because most hardware is already in hand, the primary cost is the time of the scientists and engineers on the project. Our test results will directly feed into Artemis science requirements, hardware designs for sample return, vehicle requirements (HLS, Gateway, Orion), and operations planning for lunar exploration activities. For FY21, we propose to: Finalize the sample storage temperature requirements for volatile-rich samples by completing storage testing, along with materials testing for Artemis geologic sampling, integrate solid sample monitoring to characterize solid species, and complete water extraction testing for ISRU.

Benefits

The goal of the Characterization of Lunar Polar Volatiles for Curation and ISRU project is to support lunar exploration by simulating and characterizing ice and volatile-rich materials expected to be found at the lunar poles. These materials are highly sensitive to heating, which could significantly alter their composition and prevent scientific studies on lunar samples. During FY19, we obtained materials for and designed a simulated lunar environment, within which volatile-rich simulant could be made. We also refined the procedure for moderate-fidelity lunar simulants at cryogenic temperatures. During FY20, we completed our test setup, and we can now reach cryogenic temperatures and near-lunar pressures with active compositional monitoring of volatiles in the vapor phase.

Details

Technology area	Ground, Test, and Surface Systems > Assembly, Integration, and Launch > Launch, Recovery, and Reuse
Program	Center Innovation Fund: JSC CIF (JSC CIF)
Lead organization	Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX
Start date	2020-10-01
End date	2021-09-30

Project contacts

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

Julie L Mitchell — julie.l.mitchell@nasa.gov

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.