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Completed TRL 3 (started at 1, targeting 3)
Melanin research for space exploration applications has been pursued in related but disconnected efforts. The goal of this project is twofold: 1) conduct a comprehensive review of melanin properties relevant to NASA applications including energy conversion mechanisms, UV tolerance, radiation hardness (α, β, γ), high thermal conductivity, hydroscopic behavior, solubility, and semiconductor properties; and 2) identify specific applications in spaceflight technologies including free radical capture, oxygen generation, carbon sequestration, thermal sensing, radiation protection, and others.
A comprehensive review of current melanin research mapped to human space exploration applications will enable consolidation of related but unconnected technology initiatives and provide focus to future breakthrough applications research.
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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.
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