Ouroboros

In order to scale solar power systems to sizes well beyond state of the art (i.e. ISS), next-generation space power infrastructure will need to be simpler, more robust, and more mass efficient. Project Ouroboros is developing systems that address these needs by drawing from emerging trends in microgrid power architectures, modular satellite designs, and integrated power sources to produce a distributed power architecture. Initial analysis shows that such a modular system could have more than three times the rated capacity of the ISS for equivalent mass.

Initial analysis shows that such a modular system could have more than three times the rated capacity of the ISS for equivalent mass. In order to scale solar power systems to sizes well beyond state of the art (i.e. ISS), next-generation space power infrastructure will need to be simpler, more robust, and more mass efficient.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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.