David E. Steitz
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1730
david.steitz@nasa.gov
Kathy Barnstorff
Langley Research Center, Hampton, Va.
757-864-9886
kathy.barnstorff@nasa.gov
RELEASE: 13-043
NASA SEEKS BIG IDEAS FOR SMALL IN-SPACE PROPULSION SYSTEMS
WASHINGTON -- NASA's Space Technology Program is calling for proposals
to develop miniaturized electrospray propulsion technologies that
could revolutionize small satellite propulsion systems.
Electrospray thrusters use electricity to energize material and then
disperse a resulting liquid or aerosol through an emitter to create
thrust. The development of low-mass, lightweight micro thruster
technologies has the potential to radically change propulsion
capabilities of small satellites by allowing variable thrust
propulsion, stabilization and precision pinpointing. Such micro
thrusters also might be of use for very fine pointing aboard future
large space-based observatories.
"Small spacecraft are a dominant trend in aerospace today," said
NASA's Space Technology Program Director Michael Gazarik. "As NASA
develops and improves the use of small satellites for science and
exploration, we recognize propulsion as a critical need to open the
door for small spacecraft applications. We need better miniaturized
systems to propel and maneuver our small space adventurers."
U.S. organizations, including NASA centers and other government
agencies; federally funded research and development centers;
educational institutions; industry and nonprofit organizations can
submit their ideas for miniaturized electrospray propulsion
technologies that could help provide an efficient means of providing
thrust for spacecraft.
This solicitation covers two acquisition phases and involves a
competitive selection process. During Phase I, selected proposers
will have 18 months to refine thruster designs, build prototype
thruster systems and conduct testing in flight-like environments.
During Phase II, the thruster developed in Phase I will be integrated
into a small spacecraft for an in-orbit demonstration. NASA expects
to make as many as three awards for Phase I proposals, with a total
combined cost of approximately $5 million, based on availability of
funds.
This solicitation is an appendix to NASA's Game Changing Opportunities
in Technology Development research announcement and can be found
through the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and
Evaluation System website by going to "Solicitation" and then "Open
Solicitations" at:
http://nspires.nasaprs.com Game Changing Development seeks to quickly mature innovative
technologies that will have cross-cutting applications across agency
missions and also may benefit to the American aerospace industry.
NASA's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va., will manage this
solicitation and also oversee the technical aspects of this
technology development under Phase I.
This solicitation is part of NASA's Space Technology Program, which is
innovating, developing, testing and flying hardware for use in future
science and exploration missions. NASA's technology investments
provide cutting-edge solutions for our nation's future.
For more information about NASA's Game Changing Development, Small
Satellite Technology and Space Technology Programs, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/oct
