Closing of Critical Technology Gaps for High-Efficiency Rotating Detonation Rocket Engines

Completed TRL 6 (started at 4, targeting 6)

Description

Develop the capability within the US to design and operate a high performance rotating detonation rocket engine for hypersonic, Lunar/Martian lander, and interplanetary propulsion applications.

Benefits

Dramatically advanced RDRE technology will enable NASA and the US to make the next leap in rocketry towards significantly higher efficiencies and enable a sustainable space economy.

Details

Technology area	Materials, Structures, Mechanical Systems, and Manufacturing > Manufacturing > Manufacturing Processes
Program	Early Career Initiative (ECI)
Lead organization	Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, AL
Start date	2022-10-03
End date	2024-09-29

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Thomas W Teasley — thomas.w.teasley@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — 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.