Optical Wireless Technology for Lunar to Mars

Introduction: This SBIR supports NASA's need for Optical Wireless Power Transfer (OWPT) for the Lunar and Mars human exploration missions. Supports power distribution from solar and fission surface generators where wired cabling is costly, impractical, or unsuitable for mobility needs. The SBIR can support a space tech demo in the 2028-2031. OWPT can dynamically deliver power, provisioned within minutes, anywhere within a 20 km radius vs wired deployable tethers or RF wireless out to ~ 1 km. Limitations of Traditional Power Generation: Conventional power generation methods are limited to fixed locations with wired power distribution lines serving nearby areas around landing sites. Long-range power distribution utilizes high-voltage transmission methods for point-to-point power delivery, which is suitable for fixed locations. NASA and others are testing long wire or fiber optic deployable tethers to support mobile power up to approximately 1 km, beyond which challenges arise. On Earth, mobile power is typically provided by gasoline and batteries. Addressing NASA's Commercial Shortfall: This SBIR addresses NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) Commercial Shortfall List Priority #12 (1591). The benefits of OWPT include supporting longer-range deployment of mobile vehicles, Benefits of OWPT Technology: • Provides power for ISRU prospecting, mining, and construction vehicles within PSRs. • Offers dynamic power delivery with a 20 km line of sight. • Extends the reach of solar, fission, and fuel cell generators over large area. • Supports mobile operations lasting days to weeks away from a landing site, reducing the need for direct power source connections. • Enhance mission productivity, flexibility, less wear and tear on mobile equipment traveling to wired chargers. • Nighttime Power Distribution: Distributes nighttime power for operations, ensuring survival through the night. • Provide Lifeline power to mitigate anomalies

This SBIR develops Optical Wireless Power Transfer (OWPT) technology to meet NASA’s Mars and Lunar mission requirements for surface-to-surface and orbit-to-surface applications. Addresses NASA STMD Commercial Shortfall List Priority #12 (1591). Provides long-range power distribution from solar, fission generators where wired cabling is either costly, impractical or does not meet mobility requirements. NASA Applications for Laser Power Transfer: • Mars/Lunar surface power distribution from solar, fission and fuel cell generators. • Dynamically distribute power within 30 km radius beyond the landing site. • Supports Mars or Lunar ISRU and scientific prospecting missions • ISRU mining operations – power vehicles and mining equipment inside PSR craters. • Enabling multiple days or weeks robotic or human vehicle missions. Eliminate the need for frequent returns to the base for recharging. Improved productivity. • Distribute “survive the night” power and heat to personnel and equipment. DoD and NASA are encouraging companies to lead the way in developing lunar bases, including the necessary power distribution infrastructure. The focus is on facilitating the deployment of mobile power solutions to support various activities on the lunar surface. Non-NASA Application for Laser Power Transfer • Lunar Economy Infrastructure. Mobile power for building construction, landing pads, habitats, and ISRU mining materials to produce rocket fuel and other valuable resources. • Mars Explorers: Including large aerospace companies developing technologies and strategies for Mars exploration. • Commercial Companies in Satellite Power Transfer: Companies interested in satellite-to-satellite power transfer technology as a service. • Department of Defense (DoD): -The DoD is interested in OWPT for terrestrial applications, as demonstrated by the DARPA Power program -DoD is also interested in satellite-to-satellite power transfer

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.