Extraterrestrial Sample-return Chemistry for Advanced Propulsion Experiment (ESCAPE)

During the proposed Phase I research and development effort, the project team will develop a long-term storable, hybrid propulsion system with the highest possible specific impulse for sample return missions from large-body, extraterrestrial destinations including., the Moon, Mars, Vesta, Ceres, Phobos, and Europa. The proposed solution uses advanced chemistry to achieve mass-efficient sample return that minimizes the ascent vehicle’s gross liftoff mass (GLOM). The proposed project team will develop a plan for a follow-on flight demonstration program. The Phase I program will conclude with a hot-fire demonstration of a prototype propulsion system.

Small spacecraft, sample return, rocket propulsion

Low-cost space lift, exploration missions to the moon and Mars

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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