Bridging the gap. That's the mission of NASA's Technology Demonstration Missions, or TDM: to bridge the gap between need and means, between scientific and engineering challenges and the technological innovations needed to overcome them, between early proof-of-concept tests and the final infusion of cost-effective, revolutionary new technologies into robust NASA, government and commercial space missions. The TDM program, part of NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate in Washington, focuses on crosscutting technologies with strong customer interest that meet the needs of NASA and industry by enabling new missions or greatly enhancing existing ones. Chosen technologies will be thoroughly ground- and flight-tested in relevant operating environments -- reducing risks to future flight missions, gaining operational heritage and continuing NASA’s long history as a technological leader. These newly proven technologies will enable future NASA missions to pursue bolder goals; make human missions safer and more rewarding; and enable new expansion of space industry in the government and commercial sectors.
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