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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
The goal of MOOSE project is to develop ultralight, anti-seize (self-lubricating), radiation-hardened, wear-resistant, corrosion-resistant, mechanically-robust metal matrix composites (MMCs) by affordable and scalable manufacturing processes, for sustainable on-orbit and on-surface services with minimum service and repair needs in extreme space environments such as space vacuum, radiation, spiky lunar dust, microgravity, high thermal excursion, and micrometeoroid impact.
The MOOSE technology will benefit NASA space missions including the Artemis program by making them more sustainable with minimum service and repair needs and provide significant support for commercial applications in harsh environments, including nuclear waste containment, hypersonic vehicles, neurosurgical robotics, and various mechanical parts such as turbine blades, engine pistons, bearing liners, driveshafts, and suspensions.
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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