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Completed TRL 6 (started at 5, targeting 6)
The aim of the Distributed Attitude Control and Maneuvering for Deep Space SmallSats project is to advance a multi-purpose, deep space mission-enabling technology for low-power attitude and thermal control of small satellites to a flight demonstration technology readiness level
Using water as the propellant, the FEMTA thruster can generate finely controllable thrust at a thrust to power ratio of about 200 microNewton per watt. The FEMTA propulsion modules can provide precision pointing and attitude control of small spacecraft in Earth orbit, cis-lunar space, and beyond. The standalone modules can also provide precision control for large deployable structures including solar sails for deep space small spacecraft missions.
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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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