← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Completed TRL 3 (started at 3, targeting 5)
The project will develop a novel technology, gecko roller, to remove lunar dust from spacesuits and hard surfaces (such as solar panels). The technology works the same way as a common terrestrial lint roller, but with an elastomeric gecko-skin-inspired membrane replacing the adhesive sheet. The effort will also develop an appliance to clean the gecko roller after use. The technology can be used by an astronaut by hand or it can be integrated into a cleaning robot.
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.