Adaptive Estimator and Controller for Line-of Sight Pointing Errors for Exoplanet Direct Imaging Missions

Completed TRL 1 (started at 1, targeting 1)

Description

A testbed to verify a new technique that uses a Kalman filter and a gradient-based algorithm to estimate and control line-of-sight jitter to sub milliarc second level.

Benefits

Useful to make high-contrast exoplanet imaging possible. Can be used by NASA missions designed to directly image exoplanets.

It would also be beneficial for ground-based direct imaging systems affected by vibrational disturbances.

Details

Technology area	Entry, Descent, and Landing > Descent > Aerodynamic Decelerators
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2018-10-01
End date	2019-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Emily Wilson
Keith M Jahoda — keith.m.jahoda@nasa.gov
Terence A Doiron — terence.a.doiron@nasa.gov
Hari B Subedi — hari.b.subedi@nasa.gov
Neil T Zimmerman — neil.t.zimmerman@nasa.gov
Tyler D Groff — tyler.d.groff@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 1) — 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.