Standardized and Radiation-Tolerant Motor Controllers for Space Robotics

The Zeta motor controller is a modular, radiation-tolerant motor control solution designed to meet the demanding requirements of space robotics, satellite actuation, and deep-space mechanisms. The objective of this project is to develop firmware that ensures full compliance with the DS402 standard, enabling seamless integration with existing robotic platforms and expanding support for multiple motor types, including brushed DC, brushless DC, and stepper motors. The firmware development will focus on implementing position, velocity, and torque control modes while ensuring high-precision feedback and robust fault tolerance. The CAN-based communication protocol will be optimized for reliable, low-latency data exchange in space environments. Additionally, adaptive auto-tuning algorithms will be incorporated to streamline motor parameter configuration, reducing the need for manual adjustments and improving performance across various operational conditions. To validate the firmware, software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing will be conducted, ensuring compliance with DS402 and compatibility with multiple motor configurations. A graphical user interface (GUI) will be developed to provide intuitive control and real-time monitoring of motor parameters, enhancing usability for space and terrestrial applications. By leveraging Novium’s dual-path development strategy, the firmware will be tested on terrestrial controllers before transitioning to a radiation-hardened version for spaceflight qualification. The resulting firmware will provide a cost-effective, adaptable, and high-reliability motor control solution for NASA missions and commercial space applications.

The Zeta motor controller is a radiation-tolerant, DS402-compliant motor control solution designed to support NASA’s low Earth orbit (LEO) operations and on-orbit robotics. By adhering to industry-standard motion control protocols, Zeta enables interoperability with existing and future motor controllers, allowing for scalable and modular actuator development across multiple mission platforms. NASA can integrate Zeta into robotic servicing and on-orbit assembly systems, where precise motor control is required for dexterous manipulation, spacecraft docking, refueling operations, and payload handling. Its CAN-based communication architecture ensures reliable, low-latency control for robotic arms, multi-axis pointing systems, and deployable mechanisms on platforms such as the International Space Station (ISS) and upcoming OSAM missions. In addition, Zeta’s compliance with the DS402 standard establishes a foundation for future motor controller development, enabling NASA and commercial partners to build and integrate controllers that share a common communication and control framework. This approach reduces system complexity, accelerates development timelines, and enhances the availability of space-rated motor control solutions for servicing, assembly, and station operations in LEO. By providing a cost-effective, standardized motor controller, Zeta supports NASA’s goal of expanding robotic capabilities in LEO while paving the way for broader compatibility in future actuation systems. In the commercial space sector, Zeta can be integrated into commercial space stations, satellite servicing vehicles, and autonomous spacecraft requiring precise motion control for robotic arms, docking systems, payload handling, and deployable structures. Companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, Sierra Space, and Northrop Grumman developing commercial orbital platforms and servicing technologies could benefit from a standardized, adaptable motor controller. Beyond space, Zeta’s radiation tolerance and fault-resilient design make it suitable for defense applications, including military satellites, autonomous ground vehicles, and UAVs operating in high-radiation or extreme environments. Its interoperability with other DS402-compliant controllers also enables broader adoption in industrial automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing, where precise multi-axis motor control is essential.

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.