Ultra-compact, High Resolution, LADAR System for 3D Imaging, Phase II

NASA requires a small, lower power "ranging" sensor that produces a depth map of the scene (the exterior of the Space Shuttle, the International Space Station or a future Space Solar Power Satellite) to inspect for damage. By combining innovative designs with MEMS-based scanners and off the shelf electronic and optical components, this program will develop a low power, miniature LADAR system with 1 mm resolution at 10 meters weighing <300 g, costing orders of magnitude less compared to the state-of-the art systems. This LADAR will be capable of providing high resolution 3-D images of Space Shuttle Thermal Protection System for damage assessment.

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.