Laser Absorption Imaging diagnostic system for arc jet facilities

We propose the Phase II development of a Laser Absorption Imaging (LAI) diagnostic system, with a design that is specifically optimized for NASA arc jet facilities. This approach exploits advances in high-speed infrared cameras and rapidly tunable lasers to image a range of species in the mid-wave infrared spectral range. The spectral / spatial / temporal data provides needed empirical information. In Phase I, a breadboard system was assembled, and proof of concept measurements conducted to demonstrate temporally and spatially resolved gas property measurements for NO and CO. Specific techniques and components were down selected and risk mitigation strategies developed. In Phase II of the project, we will design and produce a multi-species prototype that will be fully developed and demonstrated at NASA arc jet facilities. New diagnostic tools are needed to better understand conditions in NASA arc jet facilities for the verification of test conditions, validation of simulations, and measurement of incident/boundary conditions of test articles. Laser absorption spectroscopy is a highly effective diagnostic tool; however, typical systems are limited to a single, path-integrated spatial location. In this project, we leverage advances in fast-tuning laser spectroscopy techniques and high-speed infrared cameras to produce a laser absorption imaging (LAI) system capable of measuring spatial / spectral / temporal information of dynamic flow fields and shock layers. A prototype sensor will be designed and built in Phase II of this project providing spatially resolved information on species concentration and temperature at a relatively high data rate, (~ 1 kHz). The overall objective of this SBIR project is the development of a new gas sensor with unique capabilities. In this project, a version of the sensor will be specifically optimized for NASA arc jet facilities. In addition, there will be a general increase in the technology readiness level (TRL) up to TRL 7, which will have applicability for a range of government and commercial applications. The specific Phase II objectives are: Finalize design of prototype including hardware, software, and concepts of operation Produce prototype and characterize performance in lab testing and other facilities Demonstrate prototype at a NASA Ames and/or other arc jet facilities Deliver prototype to NASA and train relevant personnel on operation and associated data processing Establish commercialization path, including concrete agreements with partners, investors, and customers.

The sensor resulting from this project will be used at NASA arc jet facilities, which support NASA Entry and Descent (ED)/ Entry, Descent and Landing (EDL) missions, such as crewed Moon or Mars return missions, high mass Mars landers, and Venus and gas/ice giant probes. Preparing for such missions will require testing and qualification of Thermal Protection Systems (TPS). Arc jet facilities provide the only ground-based simulation of flight entry conditions and are critical to TPS development required for these and other Exploration missions.  Sensors will provide an attractive alternative to existing gas diagnostics for a range of applications. The ability to obtain high-speed, spatially resolved species concentrations and temperature information will be useful for combustion diagnostics, environmental monitoring and industrial processes. Products could be used for rocket engines, burner performance, and monitoring of pollutants.                     

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.