Stabilized Z-Pinch Fusion Driven Electromagnetic Propulsion

This proposal aims to design, characterize, and assess the potential for a z-pinch fusion driven electromagnetic propulsion concept to transform in-space transportation by combining laboratory testing with numerical simulations. The concept leverages low 𝛼 fusion energy and an electromagnetic acceleration mechanism to present a scalable concept with the potential for high specific power, thrust, and specific impulse. The system is also compact (i.e., does not require external magnets), operationally simple, and feasible to test in experimental laboratories. These features are unique among low technology readiness level propulsion concepts, where, especially when fusion reactions are involved, sensitivity to plasma temperatures make the validation of simulations and theoretical models with laboratory experiments essential to assess scalability.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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.