Multi-detector Experiment for next-Generation Applications in Heliophysics (MEGA-H)

We propose to develop a unique 395-megapixel, multi-detector, camera system. This system will use an optical imaging system whose exit beam is split by a field-splitting optic onto four individual detectors that can be located conveniently apart from each other. This field-splitting optic is important as it preserves the whole FOV and delivers an image without any gaps between detectors. This is advantageous over traditional mosaicked detectors on a single baseplate that leave gaps between even closely packed ‘buttable’ arrays. This camera architecture is also advantageous in that the four individual detectors can be chosen to meet any driving requirement such as: bandpass quantum efficiency, pixel count, pixel size, noise characteristics, etc. This may be particularly enabling in other bandpasses, such as UV, that have significant pixel-count limitations in detectors. This architecture enables a scientist to choose the best detector without regard to the number of pixels and assemble them into the desired pixel count with this architecture. This camera system will initially be mounted behind a wide FOV white light imager and be capable of both wide FOV (10 degrees) and high pixel instantaneous field of view (iFOV) (1.5”) to observe the Sun’s corona and address specific scientific objectives. This project will advance the Multi-detector Experiment for next-Generation Applications in Heliophysics (MEGA-H) Gapless Camera concept into a prototype instrument. We will build the instrument, characterize its performance, and perform a demonstration of its capabilities. Now is an important time to fund this effort so that we may attempt to perform observations during the 2026 eclipse. The schedule details our Integration and Test (I&T) schedule with six-month margin before the eclipse. Funding this effort now is ideally timed to demonstrate the system and collect unique and useful scientific data.

Support NASA's Heliophysics strategic science objectives to understand the Sun and its interactions with Earth and the solar system, including space weather. This will be achieved by developing/demonstrating instrumentation technology necessary to address the following science goals: Explore the physical processes in the space environment from the Sun to the Earth and throughout the solar system; Advance our understanding of the connections that link the Sun, the Earth, planetary space environments, and the outer reaches of our solar system; Develop the knowledge and capability to detect and predict extreme conditions in space to protect life and society and to safeguard human and robotic explorers beyond Earth.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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.