Compact, Dual Channel, Mid-IR Laser Spectrometer, Phase I

The Small Business Innovative Research Phase I proposal seeks to develop a dual channel, compact mid-infrared laser spectrometer for planetary atmosphere exploration. The device will be capable of measuring trace gases at 3.3 and 4.6 um without the need for cryogens. By using novel, fiber-coupled, solid state lasers, performance will be improved over traditional tunable diode laser sensors.

Potential NASA Commercial Applications: The worldwide market for gas sensors with the capabilities of the proposed system is quite large. Numerous potential applications can be found in trace gas monitoring, pollution monitoring, industrial process control, and medical diagnostics.

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.