Mars Science Laboratory Entry Descent and Landing Instrument (MEDLI) 2: 2. Entry and Descent Performance Knowledge Improvements

Completed TRL 6 (started at 6, targeting 9)

Description

Through the blend of ground testing and flight data, will improve modeling and analysis methods for EDL performance leading to reductions in uncertainties, potential reductions in TPS mass, and potential reductions in landing footprint.

Benefits

Reductions in uncertainties used in EDL Modeling and Analysis.

All future EDL missions can use the new knowledge to better understand their EDL performance.

Details

Technology area	Air Traffic Management and Range Tracking Systems > Safe All-Vehicle Access
Program	Game Changing Development (GCD)
Lead organization	Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
Start date	2014-10-01
End date	2021-09-01

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Henry S Wright — henry.s.wright@nasa.gov
Deepak Bose — deepak.bose@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — 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.