← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Development of an X-ray tube for planetary instruments
Completed
TRL 6 (started at 3, targeting 6)
Description
We will mate a HVPS from Battel Eng. with an xRT from R\xd6NTGEN-TECHNIK WARRIKHOFF (RTW). We will test and evaluate xRT prototypes for xRD/xRF, and develop a high-TRL X-ray source design. Next steps include improving xRT design and refining flight xRT controller and HVPS (proposal to PICASSO or MatISSE). The X-ray source design will be included in the Mapx Europa Lander proposal to be submitted later this year (est. AO release Aug., 2017).
Benefits
This spacecraft qualifiable X-ray tube will be use in our recently funded DALI project, and in future instruments for xRD and xRF, such as next-generation CheMin instruments and the Mapx instrument currently funded under the MatISSE program.
Details
| Technology area | Human Health, Life Support, and Habitation Systems > Human Health and Performance > Decompression Sickness Mitigation |
| Program | Center Innovation Fund: ARC CIF (ARC CIF) |
| Lead organization | Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA |
| Start date | 2017-10-01 |
| End date | 2018-09-30 |
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 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.