Development of a Dosimeter Component for a Thermal and Electrical Conductivity Probe for the Moon

Completed TRL 1 (started at 1, targeting 4)

Description

A dosimeter component for a thermal and electrical conductivity (TEC) probe will measure the irradiative properties (few cGys) of the lunar regolith and volatile environment at depths < 10 cm. The goal of this project is to test a dosimeter component for the TEC probe and define measurement requirements (thermal, electrical systems, detector capabilities) and operational cycle.

Benefits

Data collection from this instrument at the lunar surface will improve future sample collection strategies, sample equipment, radiation detectors, and safety logistics for astronauts at the Moon and beyond.

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > In Situ Instruments and Sensors > Electromagnetic Wave–Based Sensors
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.

Michael J Amato — michael.j.amato@nasa.gov
Terry A Hurford — terry.a.hurford@nasa.gov
Jacob A Richardson — jacob.a.richardson@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 1) — 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.