Significant benefit will be gained in expanding the knowledge base and novel innovation at multiple NASA centers in low-temperature SMA technologies. KSC's efforts focus on SMA Adaptive Materials Systems Concepts and Designs and GRC's efforts focus on Novel Low-temperature Alloy Designs. 2-way cryogenic temperature SMAs open new areas of applications in space and commercial aerospace (e.g. adaptive umbilical connectors (thermal and mechanical) which use surrounding environments to add multi-functionality). It is expected systems like this would allow for more robust operations in cryogenic storage and transfer systems and in-situ resource utilization for space exploration. It is expected technology success could result in game changing results for use of low temperature SMAs in adaptive, smart thermal/mechanical systems. Aligns with the following NASA Strategic Initiatives: -Strategic Space Technology Investment Plan (SSTIP) Strategic Goal 3: technology investment framework under core technology investment and adjacent technologies, light weight structures and autonomous control, and surface systems. - NASA Roadmap technologies areas (TA) alignment TA12.2.1.4 Environment; TA12.2.2.1 Lightweight Concepts, Shape Morphing Materials; TA12.2.2.5 Innovative, Multi-functional Concepts, Adaptive/smart Structures; TA14.2.1 Cryogenic Systems; TA2.2.1.2 In-Space Propulsion, Liquid Cryogenic; TA2:2.4.2 Propellant Storage & Transfer; and TA13:1.1 Distribution, Storage and Conservation of Fluids. -NASA Space Technology Grand Challenges – Space Colonization Development of this technology also aligns with the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) focus area: Development of New Foundational Technologies to Reduce Future Costs Across NASA, Expand Opportunities, and Grow the American Economy. Advancing development and NASA intellectual property in the area of multifunctional materials for cryogenic thermal control, autonomous systems, and technologies for umbilical and surface systems can result in technology transfer and benefits to the commercial space industry.
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