Increasing the dynamic range of spaceflight charged particle instruments

Covering the dynamic range of the plasma ion fluxes over disparate regions of the heliosphere and over the full range of conditions, is a challenge. The difficulty is increased if more than one population is to be measured by the same instrument, or even if the same population is to be measured but at vastly different heliocentric distances. In this proposal, we propose a hardware system for achieving a large dynamic range by a single ion instrument that can be used to address the science goal of this proposal which is: the determination of the coupling between the solar-wind interplanetary (IP) events and the magnetosphere ' ionosphere system. In addition to addressing the science goals of NASA, this proposal also addresses key technological goals. The anticipated result of this proposal is that we will have validated a method for implementing a variable geometric factor. Through design, building, and prototype testing, we will learn enough about methods to design variable geometric factors make an informed decision on which way to proceed for future missions. By bread-boarding the most critical elements of the electronics we increase our Technical Readiness Level (TRL) so that they are mature enough to be proposed for a flight mission. We will also be able to make valid mass/power assessments to aid in the mission design.

Support NASA's Heliophysics strategic science objectives to understand the Sun and its interactions with Earth and the solar system, including space weather. This will be achieved by developing/demonstrating instrumentation technology necessary to address the following science goals: Explore the physical processes in the space environment from the Sun to the Earth and throughout the solar system; Advance our understanding of the connections that link the Sun, the Earth, planetary space environments, and the outer reaches of our solar system; Develop the knowledge and capability to detect and predict extreme conditions in space to protect life and society and to safeguard human and robotic explorers beyond Earth.

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.

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.