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Completed TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 6)
Assess, fabricate, test, and evaluate Reflectivity Control Devices (RCDs) to as candidates for providing roll, pitch, and yaw momentum control on large solar sails operating between 0.4AU – 1.5 AU.
Future, large area solar sail propulsion systems will require innovative, low-mass methods for managing momentum during flight. Alternatives will be required for long duration deep-space solar sail missions.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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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