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Completed TRL 6 (started at 3, targeting 6)
The goal of the Sub-kilowatt Electric Propulsion (SkEP) project is to design, build and demonstrate the operation of a flight-qualified sub-kilowatt electric propulsion integrated system that will enable science and exploration missions using ESPA-class spacecraft. The project will develop a laboratory model propulsion system to evaluate and identify components, operation processes, and integration requirements. Successful development of a laboratory model will be used to leverage the development of a flight-qualified system, which will be demonstrated in a simulated space environment. Design requirements for the propulsion system include 5,000 hours of operation using baseline xenon propellant. This effort leverages government and industry expertise to define system requirements to ensure the resulting technology is capable of satisfying both near-term NASA science missions and commercial application interests.
Will enable high-value science missions within the constraints of an ESPA-class spacecraft Will enable ESPA-class spacecraft to have enhanced propulsive capabilities
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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.
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