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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
We will demonstrate through this proposal a fully formed ionic liquid-based mirror with a science reflective coating that is scalable to multi meter length scales.
Current methods for fabricating lenses or mirrors rely on mechanical processing - such as grinding, machining, and polishing. The complexity of these fabrication processes and the required specialized equipment prohibit rapid prototyping of optical components and places a very high price tag on large lenses and free-form optics.
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.
None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.