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PolCube CubeSat Polarimeter Mission (PolCube)
Completed
TRL 2 (started at 2, targeting 2)
Description
Polcube is a copy of POLCAM, a Korean polarimeter built for a Moon science campaign. PolCube is adapted for Earth Observation based on requirements they have worked with Snorre and LaRC to generate. PolCube is a 12U complete polarimeter that the partners would deliver to LaRC. LaRC would then be responsible for testing and validating the instrument performance, then all of the steps needed to get the 12U a ride, get it through all of the hurdles to allow it to be integrated to the launch vehicle, then operate the 12U once on orbit, downlinking, storing and processing the data.
Benefits
Increase scientific understanding of natural phenomena using remote sensing.
Details
| Technology area | Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Detectors and Focal Planes |
| Program | Earth Science (ESD) |
| Lead organization | Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA |
| Start date | 2022-08-01 |
| End date | 2023-05-31 |
Project contacts
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
How to get involved
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — 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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