← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Completed TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 4)
The development of a safe, electrically-controlled extinguishable solid propellant (ESP) thruster would allow NASA to demonstrate an innovative throttleable solid rocket motor that could replace multi-mode liquid propulsion systems. Replacement of cold gas and monopropellant systems for in-space propulsion with a safe, volumetrically-efficient thruster set could offer game-changing improvements in performance. ESPs are inert unless ignited with an electric potential of appropriate magnitude.
These goal of these tests is to demonstrate the feasibility of an electrically-controlled extinguishable solid rocket motor propellant, which could be used as a safe, volumetrically-efficient replacement for liquid thrusters.
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.
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.