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Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
As NASA works to extend human exploration of the solar system, unprecedented capacity for energy distribution management, and storage will be needed to support a sustained human presence and the beginning of industrial activity. NASA's Watts on the Moon Challenge seeks solutions for energy distribution, management, and/or storage that address NASA's technology gaps, and can be further developed for space flight and future operation on the lunar surface.
Watts on the Moon, Phase 1 ran from 9/25/2020 to 5/20/2021. Phase 2 began 2/23/22 and closed on 9/20/24.
As part of the Artemis program, NASA will send astronauts to new areas of the Moon including the lunar South Pole, and prepare for human exploration of Mars. Sustainable missions will require an unprecedented capacity for power. Astronauts will need a continuous supply of power from multiple sources to live and work on the Moon for long periods. A flexible and robust system for surface power is key to safe and robust lunar exploration. Not only could novel solutions make a difference in lunar and space exploration, but technologies discovered during this Centennial Challenge could help facilitate new power options on Earth.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
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.
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