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Active TRL 3 (started at 3, targeting 6)
This activity's objective is to develop a combined protection systems that combines thermal protection (i.e. MLI) and hypervelocity impact protection. Testing will include hypervelocity impact testing at both the coupon and tank applied level as well as thermal calorimeter testing, liquid hydrogen tank applied testing, and tank applied vibration testing.
Combining these protection systems on cryogenic tanks will decrease their thickness and allow for a significant volumetric increase for tanks as well as a reduction in mass.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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.