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Eth-RT: Enabling Real-Time Ethernet Communication Between Commercial-Off-The-Shelf Devices
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Description
NASA relies on real-time Ethernet protocols for many programs. These protocols rely on proprietary network cards and non-standard message formats that increase costs and limit interoperability. This project develops an Ethernet switch that enables real-time communication between standard Ethernet end nodes sending standard Ethernet messages
Benefits
Eth-RT will enable spacecraft to meet real-time networking requirements without requiring proprietary network cards or special software, significantly reducing cost.
Details
| Technology area | Flight Computing and Avionics > Avionics Component Technologies > High-Performance Processors |
| Program | Center Innovation Fund: JSC CIF (JSC CIF) |
| Lead organization | Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX |
| Start date | 2025-10-01 |
| End date | 2026-09-30 |
Project contacts
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
How to get involved
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.