Technology Demonstration

NASA’s New Experimental Antenna Tracks Deep Space Laser – NASA

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NASA’s New Experimental Antenna Tracks Deep Space Laser – NASA

Capable of receiving both radio frequency and optical signals, the DSN’s hybrid antenna has tracked and decoded the downlink laser from DSOC, aboard NASA’s Psyche mission. An experimental antenna has received both radio frequency and near-infrared laser signals from NASA’s Psyche spacecraft as it travels through deep space. This shows it’s possible for the giant … Read more

NASA Tests New Spacecraft Propellant Gauge on Lunar Lander

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NASA Tests New Spacecraft Propellant Gauge on Lunar Lander

It’s easy to measure fuel in tanks on Earth, where gravity pulls the liquid to the bottom. But in space, the game changes. Quantifying fuel that’s floating around inside a spacecraft’s tank isn’t so simple. “Because of the very small amount of gravity, fluid doesn’t settle to the bottom of propellant tanks but rather clings … Read more

NASA uses innovative technologies to address the challenges of cryogenic fluid management during sustained space exploration and science missions

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NASA uses innovative technologies to address the challenges of cryogenic fluid management during sustained space exploration and science missions

Establishing sustained operations at the Moon and Mars presents a multitude of opportunities and challenges NASA has yet to encounter. Many of these activities require new technologies and processes to ensure the agency is prepared for its ambitious Artemis missions and those beyond. One of those challenges is working with cryogenic fluids, meaning fluids existing … Read more

NASA’s Space Station Laser Comm Terminal Achieves First Link – NASA

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NASA’s Space Station Laser Comm Terminal Achieves First Link – NASA

A NASA technology experiment on the International Space Station completed its first laser link with an in-orbit laser relay system on Dec. 5, 2023. Together, they complete NASA’s first two-way, end-to-end laser relay system. NASA’s LCRD (Laser Communications Relay Demonstration) and the new space station demonstration, ILLUMA-T (Integrated LCRD Low Earth Orbit User Modem and … Read more

The Heat is On! NASA’s “Flawless” Heat Shield Demo Passes the Test – NASA

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The Heat is On! NASA’s “Flawless” Heat Shield Demo Passes the Test – NASA

A little more than a year ago, a NASA flight test article came screaming back from space at more than 18,000 mph, reaching temperatures of nearly 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit before gently splashing down in the Pacific Ocean. At that moment, it became the largest blunt body — a type of reentry vehicle that creates a … Read more

NASA Studies Human Pilots to Advance Autonomous Air Taxis – NASA

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NASA Studies Human Pilots to Advance Autonomous Air Taxis – NASA

Air taxis may become an important part of the U.S. transportation ecosystem, quickly carrying people relatively short distances – and eventually some may fly without a pilot aboard. NASA is helping prepare for that future with research to ensure that fully autonomous flight technology is safe. Currently, a NASA study team is evaluating how autonomous … Read more