Surface Sustainability and Logistics Analysis Task (SSLA)

The Surface Sustainability and Logistics Analysis (SSLA) task, part of NASA’s Game Changing Development (GCD) Program, is designed to evaluate and advance technologies critical for long-duration lunar and Martian operations. The primary objective is to assess current capabilities, identify performance gaps, and mitigate architecture risks associated with surface sustainability and logistics. This effort supports Moon to Mars (M2M) objectives by enabling Earth-independence and fostering a sustainable commercial ecosystem. The task focuses on four key technology areas: * Prepared surfaces for enhanced mobility. * Excavation and site preparation systems. * In-situ deployment and assembly of structures for power systems. * Modular, interoperable robotics for repairability and reconfigurability. These technologies are essential for resource utilization, infrastructure reliability, and autonomous operations. The study will employ a trade analysis approach, leveraging literature reviews and existing data to quantify impacts on operational lifetime, failure rates, and maintenance requirements. Both space-specific solutions and adaptable terrestrial technologies will be considered. Key deliverables include a comprehensive State of the Art report for each technology area and detailed Technology Development Plans outlining pathways for maturation, testing protocols, and development milestones. These outputs will inform future research initiatives and partnerships, ensuring alignment with strategic architecture needs. The SSLA task is led by Kennedy Space Center with support from Langley Research Center and Ames Research Center. Scheduled milestones include draft documentation by December 2025 and final reports by March 2026, culminating in actionable recommendations for advancing surface sustainability technologies.

The Surface Sustainability and Logistics Analysis (SSLA) study delivers critical insights for enabling long-duration lunar and Martian missions. By identifying performance gaps and architecture risks, the study informs technology development strategies that enhance operational reliability and reduce mission risk. Its focus on prepared surfaces, excavation systems, modular robotics, and in-situ assembly directly supports infrastructure resilience and Earth-independence, key objectives for Moon to Mars initiatives. The analysis promotes efficient resource utilization by evaluating technologies for excavation, processing, and deployment of local materials, reducing reliance on Earth-based supply chains. Additionally, the emphasis on interoperability and maintainability of robotic systems ensures adaptability and long-term functionality in harsh environments. Deliverables such as State of the Art reports and Technology Development Plans provide actionable pathways for maturing critical technologies, fostering innovation, and accelerating infusion into future architectures. Ultimately, SSLA strengthens sustainability, commercial viability, and mission success for planetary surface operations, enabling robust exploration capabilities and advancing global space development goals.

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.