Voxel Advanced Digital-manufacturing for Earth & Regolith in Space, Year 1 (VADERS)

A voxel is a discrete three-dimensional (3D) element of material that is used to construct a larger 3D object. It is the 3D equivalent of a pixel. A characteristic proof of concept device using regolith derived materials will be researched, conceptualized, designed, fabricated & tested in a lab environment.

This project intends to show that the previous modeling of Voxels done by others can be rapidly translated into a physical instantiation of the three dimensional object that was virtually modeled using software methods only. In addition, indigenous materials found on planetary surfaces and asteroids will be used to show how this technique could be used to fabricate objects in space. Such a capability is the key to reducing logistics from Earth to Space and will provide substantial mass launch savings as well as operational flexibility and robustness.

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.