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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
Gravitational-wave (GW) astrophysics has begun in earnest with the early successes of LIGO, and the substantial progress of the LISA mission toward launch in the 2030s. The unexplored “Deci-Hz” (dHz) band lies in between LISA and LIGO, containing guaranteed early warning of multi-messenger LIGO stellar origin compact binaries of black holes (SOBH) and neutron stars (BNS), potentially exciting additional sources like double-white dwarf systems merging to cause Type Ia supernovae, intermediate mass black hole (IMBH) binary mergers, and others. We will develop a point design for a Deci-Hz Interferometer Space Antenna (DISA), identify key high TRL technologies, and optimize for the near-term and acceptable cost. A major advantage is our ability to leverage the extensive technology that is currently being or has already been produced for LISA, the GRACE missions, and other Earth science missions. In many cases the technical requirements are less strict for DISA than for LISA.
Quantify both minimum and reasonable science goals for such a mission.
Provide a baseline design for a realistic, near term mission design
Understand a realistic cost for such a mission.
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.