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Completed TRL 1 (started at 1, targeting 2)
The goal of the proposed project is to model, fabricate, and test cryogenic selective surfaces based on a rigid diffusive surface placed on a silver layer.
This concept is of great potential value to NASA. Firstly, if successful, it would provide a means for maintaining cryogenic commodity, e.g. LOX, on a trip to Mars. This is not possible under current technology and was highlighted by the NIAC review board as an important goal of the work. Maintenance of cryogenic commodities in deep space is a current need within the NASA community as highlighted by TA14.1-“Maintain cryogenic temperatures to enable longer duration missions that use cryogenic propellants...”. In addition NASA’s strategic plan (2014) Objective 1.1 states “Expand human presence… to the surface of Mars to advance…innovation.” This project fits within that objective.
One of NASA’s most significant challenges is dealing with the damage to astronauts caused by galactic cosmic radiation (GCR). To date there is no solution to this problem, however, shielding with magnetic fields based on superconducting cable may work. The proposed technology may allow superconducting cable to operate passively in space, enabling the development of a GCR shield.
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 1) — 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.
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