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Photonic radar technology for Earth science
Completed
TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 4)
Description
Proposed Objective: To reduce risk for future photonic radar systems, this project seeks to develop and mature photonic RF technology. Integrated photonics offer a path to a consolidated, compact RF transceiver with drastically improved phase stability. Phase stability will be demonstrated with a prototype Ku-band system.
Benefits
Increase scientific understanding of natural phenomena using remote sensing.
Details
| Technology area | Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Microwave, Millimeter Waves, and Submillimeter Waves |
| Program | ESTO Innovation Fund (EIF) |
| Lead organization | Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD |
| Start date | 2024-12-18 |
| End date | 2025-09-30 |
Project contacts
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
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.