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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
This project will enable advancement in Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL) by addressing technology gaps for pinpoint and safe landing for both human and robotic missions. Real-time accurate and high-resolution maps of the surface are needed for autonomously identifying and navigating towards safe landing sites. Local surface maps that can be tied globally to reconnaissance maps will also enable missions with multiple ground assets to position those assets in their desired locations.
OASSIS will develop algorithms and techniques that actively re-map or update surface maps during descent to eliminate navigation errors, develop safe site identification and selection algorithms, and implement a robotic emulation platform for hardware-in-the-loop testing of critical precision landing functions.
The OASSIS project built a platform that will enable early testing and integration of precision landing technologies. NASA's project SPLICE, which is focusing on the development and maturation of several space sensors and GNC algorithms for autonomous precise and safe landing for future NASA or commercial landers will benefit from the opportunity to quickly test pieces of its flight software and possibly sensors without any risks or expenses. This platform also provides a vehicle for testing new research algorithms that might become flight software for future missions. Being a portable system developed by a partnership with a university, the platform will also help train students on precision landing technology development as well as give NASA a direct relationship with a university lab that continuously works on computer-vision and feature-based navigation research.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
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.
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