Ultra-Lightweight Optical Components for FTS Instruments, Phase I

NASA is pursuing novel technology for FTS instruments. The use of the conventional actuator technology is limited by the weight of optical components. The innovation of this Phase I lies in the application of composite membrane optics technology to device applications. In particular, ultra-lightweight retroreflectors will be manufactured in Phase I. Phase II will integrate this novel technology with stiff actuators.

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.