System for Photogrammetric Imaging, Detection, and Ranging (SPIDR)

SPIDR seeks to revolutionize camera tracking technology with a robust, modular, and autonomous system designed to support KSC launch/landing capture. Imagery systems play a vital role in assessing vehicle and GSE performance, detecting anomalies, and investigating incidents. The SPIDR project is being developed primarily to support Artemis launch tracking, in collaboration with the Exploration Ground Systems (EGS) program. The short-term goal of the project under FY27 IRAD is to deploy and integrate the SPIDR hardware at Pad 39B to autonomously track the Artemis III (or similar) launch. The future goal of the project is to expand SPIDR’s use-case to provide anomaly response and crew situational awareness capabilities, with the intent on developing SPIDR for the Moon Base.

SPIDR prototype demonstrated with Artemis III (or another launch from KSC)

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.