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Celestial Reference Frames

Canceled TRL 5 (started at 3, targeting 5)

Description

Create a seamless multi-wavelength system of celestial reference frames at Ka (32 GHz) and K (24-26 GHz) aligned with the legacy X-band (8 GHz) in the radio, also with ties to the Gaia optical frame. Captures numerous international antenna time at no cost to NASA, e.g., Misasa, JP.

No funds used for this project in FY24.


Benefits

Improves international communication system asset accessibility at no cost to NASA.

Details

Technology areaCommunications, Navigation, and Orbital Debris Tracking and Characterization Systems > Network-Provided Position, Navigation, and Timing > Revolutionary PNT Technologies
ProgramSpace Communications and Navigation (SCaN)
Start date2019-06-01
End date2025-09-30

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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.