Small Space Platform Enhanced Internet Protocol Stack Device, Phase I

To address the NASA/ARC need for wireless networking technologies for small launch vehicles, Broadata Communications, Inc. proposes to develop a new Small Space Platform Internet Protocol (SSP-IP) Stack with Space-Enhanced TCP and devices to achieve high performance networking, despite typical space link problems and footprint constraints. BCI's approach incorporates advanced Space IP network measurements and their application in small embeddedable TCP. Our SSP-IP stack offers Internet-based protocols that provide seamless network command and control continuity between terrestrial and space-based platforms as well as networked operations of distributed ground stations. NASA will benefit from our SSP-IP by increasing simplicity of seamless network transmission and lowering cost. In Phase I BCI will demonstrate the feasibility of using SSP TCP to reliably transmit space imagery from a Nanosat launching vehicle by building, testing and integrating with hardware a preliminary version, which will demonstrate a TRL-level 3 by the end of Phase I. In Phase II, BCI plans to develop a fully functional prototype and demonstrate the low complexity and embeddability to NASA's platform with high performance. The demonstrated results will offer NASA capabilities to use our reliable SSP TCP in future ground and spacecraft operations, increasing efficiency and saving money.

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.