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Completed TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 4)
An electrodynamic conveyor (EDC) would provide NASA lunar surface operations like ISRU and construction a lower power alternative to the state-of-the-art conveying technology. EDC technology could be more reliable for long duration missions due to a reduction in moving part
The TRL of the 4-phase electrodynamic conveyor, at ISRU relevant flow rate, is at TRL 3 and would be advanced to TRL 4 through this proposed project. A follow-on suborbital flight, nominally scheduled for the end of calendar year 2022, would advance the technology from TRL 4 to TRL 6. Following a successful suborbital flight test, the technology could be advanced to TRL 7 through testing on the lunar surface on a Commercial Lunar Payloads Services program mission. The technology could then potentially be used to convey regolith for future NASA ISRU oxygen production plants for the Artemis program
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.
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