Advancing Radar Technologies for Space Exploration

Remote sensing technologies remain the primary means by which scientific knowledge about the surrounding universe is gathered in lieu of human exploration. Radar remote sensing occupies a critical juncture between the hardware ability to detect signals and the digital computing technology to process these signals in real time. This proposal advances possible improvements to radar remote sensing technology and their potential uses to increase the scientific returns from space exploration. Of particular interest are "software defined" Radar systems, capable of dynamic reconfiguration for incredible adaptability, and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar methods which show promise to greatly increase the capture rate and sensitivity of imaging technologies. The fusion of these two concepts presents a unique opportunity for technical validation in a field where theory abounds but demonstration is scarce.

This project aims to advance possible improvements to radar remote sensing technology and their potential uses to increase the scientific returns from space exploration.

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.

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