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Target Study for NASA Planetary Bio-Indicator Lidar Instrument
Completed
TRL 6 (started at 5, targeting 6)
Description
We propose to develop an analytical new real-time technique of remote detection and discrimination of any bio-signatures dispersed in the ground-level planetary atmosphere, with or without the presence of solar optical background radiation but further technological development is required to modify the instrument for planetary environments. The work proposed here accomplishes the first step towards the development of a NASA Bio-Indicator Instrument using a low cost simulation approach. Capabilities of the first atmospheric bio-indicator survey instrument will dramatically increase the probability of finding the signatures of extraterrestrial life. This concept maturation project will lead to the validation of the instrument model of Bio-Indicator technology as the first step towards development of a novel Astrobiology instrument. In line with the NASA mission and vision statement and the innovative element of the proposed work is to significantly increase the probability of finding the bio-signatures of extraterrestrial life and to guide future NASA missions towards the discovery of life. Development of the Bio-Indicator Instrument shall be done at Goddard Space Flight Center.
Benefits
Planetary Astrobiology instrument on SMD missions in the 2020s. Current plan is to mature the concept by proposing to ROSES PICASSO then MATISSE instrument development and maturation opportunities
Details
| Program | Center Innovation Fund: GSFC CIF (GSFC CIF) |
| Lead organization | Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD |
| Start date | 2015-10-01 |
| End date | 2016-09-30 |
Project contacts
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How to get involved
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — 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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