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Interplanetary Autonomous Navigation with Pulsars, Year 2

Completed TRL 6 (started at 4, targeting 6)

Description

We are aiming to position JPL to make a significant and unique set of contributions to NICER: provide precision pulsar timing models via radio observations, and a fully Bayesian state estimation package that would enhance the navigation solutions beyond the SExTANT baseline estimation package.

Benefits

Potential Applications: GPS augmentation, Deep space autonomous navigation, Conditioning of space clocks. Follow-on Options: JPL's R&TD program to further develop the concept and solve technical challenges, Reach out to DARPA for ground-based applications, NASA STMD's Game Changing program, Ground-based segment for NICER.

Details

ProgramCenter Innovation Fund: JPL CIF (JPL CIF)
Lead organizationJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, CA
Start date2014-11-01
End date2015-09-30

Project contacts

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

How to get involved

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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