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Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
Apply diagnostic Cryo-EM to enable biologic structural imaging to identify and quantify cells and biologic components in support of planetary protection. This approach does not require the growth of organisms in petri dishes as with traditional planetary protection methods.
Increase spacecraft bioburden contaminant screening capabilities including organism resolution, identification, and biomass. Currently, only select live cells can be detected and the total biomass contamination (both live and dead cells) cannot be computed.
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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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