Game Changing Development
Station Explorer for X-Ray Timing and Navigation Technology (SEXTANT)
Project Introduction
Enable GPS-like autonomous navigation in Solar System, and beyond, using millisecond period X-ray emitting neutron stars (Millisecond Pulsars) as beacons. Explore utility of pulsar-based time scale, and potential to maintain clock synchronization over long distances
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Anticipated Benefits
Autonomous navgation available anywhere in the Solar System and beyond, reduce load on space networks.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Goddard Space Flight Center
(GSFC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Greenbelt, MD |
Johnson Space Center
(JSC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Houston, TX |
|
Marshall Space Flight Center
(MSFC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Huntsville, AL |
| Co-Funding Partners | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) | NASA Mission Directorate |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Alabama
-
Massachusetts
-
Maryland
-
Texas
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC)
Responsible Program:
- Game Changing Development
Project Management
Project Duration
Start: Jun 2011
End: Jan 2019
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 3 |
| Current: | 7 |
| Estimated End: | 7 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TA 5 Communications, Navigation, and Orbital Debris Tracking and Characterization Systems
- TA 5.6 Revolutionary Concepts
- TA 5.6.1 X-Ray Navigation
Other / Cross-cutting:
- TA 5 Communications, Navigation, and Orbital Debris Tracking and Characterization Systems
- TA 5.4 Position, Navigation, and Timing
- TA 5.4.2 Onboard Auto Navigation and Maneuver
Target Destinations
Earth, The Moon, Mars
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