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NExT ADS-B - An Affordable Architecture for ADS-B Coverage to the Surface for UAS in the NAS
Completed
TRL 5 (started at 3, targeting 5)
Description
We have designed an UAS and aircraft extended communication network to cover the critical low altitude national tracking gap from the ground to 3000ft in the FAA�s NextGen. Our no-Gap ADS-B network design is nationally scalable and offers interoperability with the deployed national network. Our design does not need expensive infrastructure, it is modular for on-location demand yet is nationally scalable, so will cost far less than existing solutions. Our FAA approved secure weather data network design will be extended to provide secure UAS & aircraft traffic data.
Benefits
NASA�s Aero Aviation Programs operate many UASs, LaRC has a Cirrus SR-22 research aircraft to simulate autonomous UAS flight, other research UASs, e.g., AFRC�s Ikhana collects atmospheric data. Most NASA UAS program can use our technology to set up their custom UAS site with ADS-B transition capability. The network platform design will allow interfaces to NASA�s SSA software for their and ground control stations, simulator and its other NextGen R&D labs.
The FAA requires ADS-B for all US aircraft & drones flying in controlled airspace by 2020. The Total Available Market is over 10,000 small airports and UAS launch sites: agricultural, pipeline patrol, natural resources etc. We have strong interest from a weather sensors company and have discussed network development for commercialization with Google and Amazon.
Details
| Technology area | Autonomous Systems > Reasoning and Acting Technologies > Execution and Control |
| Program | Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer (SBIR/STTR) |
| Lead organization | Dynamic Systems Integration, Virginia Beach, VA |
| Start date | 2017-06-09 |
| End date | 2017-12-08 |
Project contacts
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How to get involved
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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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