SBIR/STTR
Triple Isotope Water Analyzer for Extraplanetary Studies, Phase II
Project Introduction
Los Gatos Research (LGR) proposes to employ Off-Axis ICOS to develop triple-isotope water analyzers for lunar and other extraplanetary exploration. This instrument will provide highly accurate quantification of dD, d18O, and d17O to better than ± 0.3 0/00, ± 0.1 0/00, and ± 0.15 0/00 respectively with minimal calibration or consumable standards. Moreover, due to the inherent benefits of Off-Axis ICOS, the analyzer will be selective, robust, and economical. In addition to being a strong candidate for extraplanetary exploration, the instrument will be deployed for field testing and research by scientists in NASA's Space Science and Astrobiology Division.
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Anticipated Benefits
Potential NASA Commercial Applications: Recently, the Moon has been discovered to harbor large amounts of H2O ice. This ice is interesting for many reasons ranging from the practical to the scientific. The origin of this ice is unknown but there are seven sources that have been postulated: The Sun, the Earth, the Moon itself, comet impacts, asteroid impacts, interplanetary dust, and giant interstellar molecular clouds. Since each of these proposed sources have significantly differing isotopic values, high-precision measurements of water isotopes will help elucidate the origin and subsequent evolution of the lunar ice. Other potential NASA missions would also benefit from the proposed analyzer, including the Mars Mission, Europa-Jupiter System Mission, and Comet Sample Return Mission.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Ames Research Center
(ARC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Moffett Field, California |
| Los Gatos Research | Supporting Organization | Industry | Mountain View, California |
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Ames Research Center (ARC)
Responsible Program:
- SBIR/STTR
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Project Managers:
Principal Investigator:
Project Duration
Start: May 2013
End: Nov 2016
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 4 |
| Current: | 4 |
| Estimated End: | 6 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TX01 Propulsion Systems
- TX01.3 Aero Propulsion
- TX01.3.11 Engine Icing
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