Nuclear Fragment Spectrometer​

The largest knowledge gap in space radiation transport codes is a lack of light ion cross section data. This data is needed to perform radiation risk assessment for NASA missions and to predict radiation levels for new environments such as planetary surfaces or habitats. The project will continue development of a novel, low-cost scheme to measure key cross sections to fill this knowledge gap. In year 1, the project demonstrated two main components for this scheme: (1) particle tracking through multiple detectors and (2) magnetic deflection for species identification. In year 2 the project matured the concept to a point where fragment ID and energy measurements can be made. ​ Year 3 goal is to take a proof-of-principle measurement fragment yields for a test system (oxygen on a carbon target), which has been previously measured by other groups.​

1. Reduced uncertainty in effective dose received by astronauts, leading to enhanced radiation risk assessment​ 2. Ability to design optimal radiation shielding for space vehicles and extraterrestrial habitats​ 3. In addition, experimentally verified radiation transport codes will lead to better treatment planning where particle therapy is used for cancer treatment.​

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.