Planetary Surface Navigational Autonomy through 3D Sensing

Completed TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 4)

Description

This IRAD aims to support high TRL rover lidar system mission infusion while investigating further SWaP reductions through an astronaut wearable lidar design.

Benefits

As NASA pursues its mandate to explore the moon, Mars, and beyond in-situ navigational autonomy for planetary surface operations will be of paramount importance. Not only is this essential for safety and reliability of robotic and crewed missions, but it cuts costs and improves scientific return by decreasing ground control requirements and communication bandwidth.

Details

Technology area	Robotic Systems > Mobility > Surface Mobility
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2024-10-01
End date	2025-09-30

Project contacts

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

Cheryl J Gramling — cheryl.j.gramling@nasa.gov
Michael J Amato — michael.j.amato@nasa.gov
Terry A Hurford — terry.a.hurford@nasa.gov
Tiffany H Hoerbelt — tiffany.hoerbelt@nasa.gov
Umeshkumar D Patel — umeshkumar.d.patel@nasa.gov
Nathaniel A Gill — nathaniel.a.gill@nasa.gov
Lonnie M Labonte — lonnie.labonte@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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.