← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Canceled TRL 2 (started at 2, targeting 3)
We will develop a proof-of-principle prototype mass spectrometer that is capable of analyzing solid samples at elevated ambient pressures. Solid samples will be analyzed for detection of key molecular markers.
We will develop key technical elements that enable the mass spectrometer to examine the nonvolatile organic composition of solid samples at a range of high and/or variable ambient pressures. We will further test these elements, both separately and together, for application both to future planetary missions and to terrestrial field health assessment objectives.
Future planetary missions
Agencies concerned with global health measurement, rapid health monitoring, and nutritional/dietary product analysis could benefit substantially. General real-world analytical requirements are of interest to numerous government programs.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — 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.