← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Integrated Powerhead for Methane Propulsion Systems
Completed
TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
Description
Development of an electric powerhead or Electropump for a 25,000 lb class Methane engine. Components for integrated RCS (~100-lb class) and Main Propulsion System (MPS) (25,000-lb class) feed systems (utilizing common propulsion tanks)"
Benefits
enabling technology for Mars Program office, especially for a large lander, as electropump technology is ideal for a deep throttling 5:1 engine. Enabling technology for small spacecraft launch vehicle
small satellite launcher. Mach 10 target launcher for USAF. XS-1 Spacecraft upper stage.
Details
| Technology area | Propulsion Systems > Chemical Space Propulsion > Cryogenic Propulsion |
| Program | Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer (SBIR/STTR) |
| Lead organization | TGV Rockets, Inc., Washington, DC |
| Start date | 2017-06-09 |
| End date | 2017-12-08 |
Project contacts
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
How to get involved
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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.