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Prototype 3D Mobile Doppler LiDAR Scanning System

Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 5)

Description

Future project funding capture and risk reduction for future proposals for a space-hardened frequency modulated continuous wave - light detection and ranging (FMCW-LiDAR) sensor / lunar environment navigation instrument.

Benefits

Project will develop an approach for the necessary thermal, radiation, vacuum, vibration, and other ruggedization considerations needed for adaptation of frequency modulated continuous wave light detection and ranging (FMCW-LiDAR) sensor for use in space and the lunar environment. FMCW-LiDAR sensors provide range and velocity information for objects scanned in a field of view (FOV), and are capable of creating high resolution three dimensional terrain maps for navigation and visualization and the development of sophisticated simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) algorithms.

Details

Technology areaRobotic Systems > Sensing and Perception > Sensing for Robotic Systems
ProgramCenter Independent Research & Development: MSFC IRAD (MSFC IRAD)
Lead organizationMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, AL
Start date2019-09-01
End date2021-09-30

Project contacts

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How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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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