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Completed TRL 3 (started at 1, targeting 3)
The objective of this research program is to investigate the efficacy of several desalting strategies for removing inorganic ions from a solution to enhance detection of biosignature organics via mass spectrometry. Our top-level deliverable is a concept for an automated desalting sample processing module as part of flight instrumentation currently in development.
Hypersaline aqueous environments represent some of the most compelling targets for astrobiological exploration such as ocean worlds and portions of Mars. Methodologies for detecting important molecules of biological and chemical interest in waters and ices depend on solutions like this.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
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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