Extreme Condition Capable Sensors (2nd year: $200k)

Conventional sensors like pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTD’s, etc. struggle to survive in extreme temperature or vibration environments. This IRAD project would study and ultimately propose sensors capable of withstanding environments such as combustion chambers. This project could explore methods such as special coatings for sensors to optical and/or acoustical sensors. This technology could be a significant advancement that is particularly beneficial for high-energy applications like rocket propulsion or the nuclear industry, as well as combustion studies, where it can enhance the understanding of complex flows and combustion instabilities. Phase I Deliverable: Study

Improve test data quality and reliability for propulsion systems used in Artemis and future Mars missions. Improves safety and performance of propulsion systems. Advances research in combustion instability and high-energy flows. Reduce risk and cost by minimizing sensor failure during critical test campaigns.

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.