Free-Flying Unmanned Robotic Spacecraft for Asteroid Resource Prospecting and Characterization

In Phase 2 we will develop a fully integrated, autonomous free-flying robotic system based on a commercial SkyJib quadcopter, and demonstrate flying straight and level to a target location, acquisition of rock and regolith samples, and return to the point of origin. The work plan for Phase 2 is as follows: 1. Completion of the Guidance, Navigation, Control, Vision, and Sample Acquisition subsystems. 2. Integration of all the payload elements at ERAU and system level check out 3. Demonstration of the entire system at NASA KSC 4. Field deployment at analog location

In 2010, President Obama called for a new approach to space exploration, which would include human and robotic exploration of asteroids. The first step in this program would be Asteroid Retrieval Mission (ARM) currently under study at NASA. Characterization of these objects would require novel approaches akin to what is here proposed. In the latest Decadal Survey, the committee recommended selecting a Comet Surface Sample Return mission as one of the NF4 missions.

Sampling of contaminated soils and liquid from hazardous environments (nuclear reactors, chemical spills etc.). Geologists could use it to capture samples from hard to reach areas, such as for example lava-tubes in Hawaii. Cameras and sensors could map the area and give the geological context. Commercial companies such as Planetary Resources and Deep Space Industries, who are interested in asteroid mining for economic gains, could also use this technology.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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.