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Ruggedized WDM-based Fiber Optics Interrogator supporting Structural Health Monitor for Reusable Rocket Launches

Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)

Description

Develop a fiber bragg grating fiber optic interrogation system that has no moving parts using a COTS tunable laser to support a rocket launch in FY24. The system will measure FBG strain on IML/OML of rocket before, during, and after vehicle launch.

Benefits

This work will enable AFRC to support various flight opportunities, such as Vanderbilt’s reusable rocket launch platform and Exos Aerospace’s reusable rocket platform.

Details

Technology areaGround, Test, and Surface Systems > Assembly, Integration, and Launch > Launch, Recovery, and Reuse
ProgramCenter Innovation Fund: AFRC CIF (AFRC CIF)
Lead organizationArmstrong Flight Research Center, Edwards, CA
Start date2022-10-01
End date2023-09-30

Project contacts

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How to get involved

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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