High-Frequency Flush Mounted Miniature LOX Fiber-Optic Pressure Sensor, Phase I

Luna Innovations is teaming with the University of Alabama, Huntsville, to develop a miniature flush-mounted fiber-optic pressure sensor that will allow accurate, high-frequency high-pressure measurement of LOx and LH2. The Innovation of this system is that the sensor is not intrusive, will not interfere with the flow field, and is a novel adaptation of proven technology. To insure compatibility with the LOx environment, the sensor will be constructed from metal-oxides, ceramics and other materials that are intrinsically safe. The sensor will help engineers optimize performance of liquid fueled rocket engines for the next generation of reusable lift vehicles, and flight versions of the sensors will enable real-time monitoring and control of the engines, improving safety and enabling commercialization of space. During the Phase I, a prototype sensor will be designed and tested to verify feasibility. Materials and bonds will be tested to insure compatibility with LOx. During the Phase II, optimized sensors will be constructed and extensive tests conducted to advance the technology to pre-production status. This system meets NASA?s goals by providing LOx and LH2 pressure data while: 1) minimizing intrusion, 2) improving reliability, 3) having fast response time, and 4) being intrinsically safe.

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.

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.