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Completed TRL 2 (started at 1, targeting 2)
An inflatable aerodynamic decelerator (IAD) is a concept that promises to help provide advanced EDL capabilities. Control of these vehicles during entry is a subject of ongoing investigation and development. This project investigates an innovative concept that uses morphing of the inflatable structure as a means of providing control and trajectory steering for a large-scale IAD.
These concepts may allow NASA to land human systems and large science payloads on Mars with high precision.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — 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.