Integrated Fiber Optic Sensor and Modeling System, Phase I

Advanced space fission systems are being developed as safe and affordable space propulsion alternatives for long-term space exploration. The characterization of non-nuclear test core simulators is limited by the lack of instrumentation options available for temperature and strain measurements. Luna Innovations proposes to develop sensors based on a fiber Bragg grating system for temperature and strain measurements. These fiber optic sensors can provide 20 to 100 times more sensing points as thermocouples on interior and exterior surfaces of the core simulator, which are expected to reach temperatures of 1000?C. In addition, Luna Innovations will work with a university partner to develop a modeling strategy to characterize the core by comparing critical data collected during operation (power distribution, temperature, strain, etc.). Hence, an array of sensors will map the physical responses of the core and produce a working feedback model for use in optimization studies of the system.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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