Compact, Ultrasensitive Formaldehyde Monitor, Phase II

The Small Business Innovative Research Phase II proposal seeks to develop a compact UV laser ?based sensor for Earth science and planetary atmosphere exploration. The device will be capable of measuring formaldehyde in real-time at ultra-trace levels.

NASA applications for the instrument described in this proposal include the interrogation of extraterrestrial atmospheres for trace species, as well as in the study of Earth's atmosphere and the monitoring of cabin air in crewed exploration vehicles. The described instrument will have potential applications in atmospheric chemistry and satellite validation performed on umanned aerial systems (UAS). The worldwide market for gas sensors with the capabilities of the proposed system is significant. Numerous potential applications can be found in trace gas monitoring, pollution monitoring, and industrial process control.

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.

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.