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Medieval woman was executed and displayed on London riverbank
Medieval woman was executed and displayed on London riverbank
Career Spotlight: Mathematician (Ages 14-18)
Mathematicians use their expert knowledge of math to solve problems and gain new understanding about how our world works. They analyze data and create mathematical models to predict results based on changes in variables. Many different fields rely heavily on math, such as engineering, finance, and the sciences.
Using math to solve real-world problems is called “applied math.” This is different from “abstract math,” which refers to the study of the structure of mathematics.
At NASA, applied math enables new discoveries in space science, astronomy, and aeronautics. For example, professionals might use math techniques to calculate the mass or thrust capability of rockets. Others might work to analyze calorie and food consumption rates aboard the International Space Station. Math is also central to physics and astronomy roles.
Brent Buffington, Europa Clipper’s mission design manager, working on the spacecraft’s trajectory in his office at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. Credit: NASA/Jay R. Thompson What are some NASA careers that rely on mathematics?
- Astronomer: Uses skills in advanced math and physics, computer programming, and more to learn about the universe.
- Mathematical modeler: Uses math to create models that help explain or predict how processes behave over time.
- Electrical engineer: Relies on trigonometry, calculus, and other math skills to design, test, and operate electrical systems.
- Data analyst: Uses skills such as algebra and statistics to find meaningful patterns in data.
- Computer scientist: Writes code that involves math, programming, data processing, and the use of special software for complex operations.
If you have an affinity for math, high school is a good time to grow those skills. Taking challenging math courses will help build a strong foundation. Participating in extracurricular activities that use math, such as robotics teams or engineering clubs, will also provide helpful opportunities to apply and hone your skills.
Careers in applied math vary widely. The type of math skills you’ll need depends on which career you’re interested in – such as astronomer or engineer – and what mathematical tools you’ll need in that job. Students may pursue a degree in applied mathematics or in their chosen field, knowing they will need to take math courses. Current job openings, guidance counselors, and mentors can shed light on the best academic path. With this information, you can begin planning for the skills and education you’ll need.
Most math-heavy careers will require at least a four-year degree in the student’s primary field of study along with several college-level math courses. Other careers may require a master’s or Ph.D.
How can I start preparing today to become a mathematician?Ready to start flexing your math muscles? NASA STEM provides a variety of hands-on activities you can use to practice applying math principles to real-world situations in space exploration and aviation. These activities are available for a variety of ages and skill levels. NASA also hosts student challenges and competitions that offer great experience for those looking to level up their applied math skills and make genuine contributions to helpful new technologies.
NASA also offers paid internships for U.S. citizens aged 16 and up. Interns work on real projects with the guidance of a NASA mentor. Internship sessions are held each year in spring, summer, and fall; visit NASA’s Internships website to learn about important deadlines and current opportunities.
Participants in the 25th Annual NASA Planetary Science Summer School work together on a mathematical project.NASA Advice from NASA mathematicians
- Ask yourself if you enjoy mathematics and if you like problem solving and puzzles. Mathematics careers rarely involve “crunching numbers,” but rather thinking of ideas and theories (for theoretical mathematics) or how to manage data, graphics, machine learning, and related computer and data skills (for applied mathematics).
– Jennifer Wiseman, senior astrophysicist, Hubble Space Telescope - Research specific fields where mathematics is applied (data science, engineering, finance) and seek internships or shadowing opportunities to experience these environments firsthand. Connect with math professionals for informational interviews and join mathematical communities or organizations related to areas that interest you.
– Justin Rice, Earth Science Data and Information Systems deputy project manager, Data Systems - Curiosity, willingness to learn, and good communication skills (writing, speaking, illustrating) are important. The last is because although numbers and data are cool, the real magic is being able to interpret them in a way that helps people make business or policy decisions that improve people’s lives.
– Nancy Carney, allocation specialist, NASA High-End Computing
- “Big Data” jobs are one area that might be very active in terms of internships, as there is huge demand for people who can help to process the incredible amounts of data that are being created in various areas. These include space science, but also everyday areas, as companies across the board build up huge customer datasets and seek ways to analyze and interpret that information.
– Kenneth Carpenter, Hubble Space Telescope operations project scientist and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope ground system scientist
For Students Grades 9-12
NASA Internship Programs
NASA STEM Opportunities and Activities For Students
Careers
Career Spotlight: Mathematician (Ages 14-18)
Mathematicians use their expert knowledge of math to solve problems and gain new understanding about how our world works. They analyze data and create mathematical models to predict results based on changes in variables. Many different fields rely heavily on math, such as engineering, finance, and the sciences.
Using math to solve real-world problems is called “applied math.” This is different from “abstract math,” which refers to the study of the structure of mathematics.
At NASA, applied math enables new discoveries in space science, astronomy, and aeronautics. For example, professionals might use math techniques to calculate the mass or thrust capability of rockets. Others might work to analyze calorie and food consumption rates aboard the International Space Station. Math is also central to physics and astronomy roles.
Brent Buffington, Europa Clipper’s mission design manager, working on the spacecraft’s trajectory in his office at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. Credit: NASA/Jay R. Thompson What are some NASA careers that rely on mathematics?- Astronomer: Uses skills in advanced math and physics, computer programming, and more to learn about the universe.
- Mathematical modeler: Uses math to create models that help explain or predict how processes behave over time.
- Electrical engineer: Relies on trigonometry, calculus, and other math skills to design, test, and operate electrical systems.
- Data analyst: Uses skills such as algebra and statistics to find meaningful patterns in data.
- Computer scientist: Writes code that involves math, programming, data processing, and the use of special software for complex operations.
If you have an affinity for math, high school is a good time to grow those skills. Taking challenging math courses will help build a strong foundation. Participating in extracurricular activities that use math, such as robotics teams or engineering clubs, will also provide helpful opportunities to apply and hone your skills.
Careers in applied math vary widely. The type of math skills you’ll need depends on which career you’re interested in – such as astronomer or engineer – and what mathematical tools you’ll need in that job. Students may pursue a degree in applied mathematics or in their chosen field, knowing they will need to take math courses. Current job openings, guidance counselors, and mentors can shed light on the best academic path. With this information, you can begin planning for the skills and education you’ll need.
Most math-heavy careers will require at least a four-year degree in the student’s primary field of study along with several college-level math courses. Other careers may require a master’s or Ph.D.
How can I start preparing today to become a mathematician?Ready to start flexing your math muscles? NASA STEM provides a variety of hands-on activities you can use to practice applying math principles to real-world situations in space exploration and aviation. These activities are available for a variety of ages and skill levels. NASA also hosts student challenges and competitions that offer great experience for those looking to level up their applied math skills and make genuine contributions to helpful new technologies.
NASA also offers paid internships for U.S. citizens aged 16 and up. Interns work on real projects with the guidance of a NASA mentor. Internship sessions are held each year in spring, summer, and fall; visit NASA’s Internships website to learn about important deadlines and current opportunities.
Participants in the 25th Annual NASA Planetary Science Summer School work together on a mathematical project.NASA Advice from NASA mathematicians- Ask yourself if you enjoy mathematics and if you like problem solving and puzzles. Mathematics careers rarely involve “crunching numbers,” but rather thinking of ideas and theories (for theoretical mathematics) or how to manage data, graphics, machine learning, and related computer and data skills (for applied mathematics).
– Jennifer Wiseman, senior astrophysicist, Hubble Space Telescope - Research specific fields where mathematics is applied (data science, engineering, finance) and seek internships or shadowing opportunities to experience these environments firsthand. Connect with math professionals for informational interviews and join mathematical communities or organizations related to areas that interest you.
– Justin Rice, Earth Science Data and Information Systems deputy project manager, Data Systems - Curiosity, willingness to learn, and good communication skills (writing, speaking, illustrating) are important. The last is because although numbers and data are cool, the real magic is being able to interpret them in a way that helps people make business or policy decisions that improve people’s lives.
– Nancy Carney, allocation specialist, NASA High-End Computing
- “Big Data” jobs are one area that might be very active in terms of internships, as there is huge demand for people who can help to process the incredible amounts of data that are being created in various areas. These include space science, but also everyday areas, as companies across the board build up huge customer datasets and seek ways to analyze and interpret that information.
– Kenneth Carpenter, Hubble Space Telescope operations project scientist and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope ground system scientist
For Students Grades 9-12
NASA Internship Programs
NASA STEM Opportunities and Activities For Students
Careers
SpaceX launches fresh group of Starlink satellites from foggy Vandenberg Space Force Base, successfully lands booster (video)
Humans were crafting tools from whale bones 20,000 years ago
Humans were crafting tools from whale bones 20,000 years ago
The four types of imagination and how they create our worlds
The four types of imagination and how they create our worlds
Inauguration of the European Space Deep-Tech Innovation Centre (ESDI) – first ESA presence in Switzerland
The European Space Agency (ESA) has inaugurated the European Space Deep-Tech Innovation Centre (ESDI), the first ESA presence in Switzerland, created in close collaboration with the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI). The new centre is located at the Switzerland Innovation Park Innovaare in Villigen. The opening highlights the growing role of deep tech in space exploration and its potential to boost Europe's growth and competitiveness.
New Adaptive Optics Show "Raindrops" on the Sun
Modern ground-based telescopes rely on adaptive optics (AO) to deliver clear images. By correcting for atmospheric distortion, they give us exceptional pictures of planets, stars, and other celestial objects. Now, a team at the National Solar Observatory is using AO to examine the Sun's corona in unprecedented detail.
Autonomous Tritium Micropowered Sensors
3 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) Artist concept highlighting the novel approach proposed by the 2025 NIAC awarded selection of Autonomous Tritium Micropowered Sensors concept.NASA/Peter Cabauy
Peter Cabauy
City Labs, Inc.
The NIAC Phase I study confirmed the feasibility of nuclear-micropowered probes (NMPs) using tritium betavoltaic power technology for autonomous exploration of the Moon’s permanently shadowed regions (PSRs). This work advanced the technology’s readiness level (TRL) from TRL 1 to TRL 2, validating theoretical models and feasibility assessments. Phase II will refine the technology, address challenges, and elevate the TRL to 3, with a roadmap for further maturation toward TRL 4 and beyond, supporting NASA’s mission for lunar and planetary exploration. A key innovation is tritium betavoltaic power sources, providing long-duration energy in extreme environments. The proposed 5cm x 5cm gram-scale device supports lunar spectroscopy and other applications. In-situ analyses at the Moon’s south pole are challenging due to cold, limited solar power, and prolonged darkness. Tritium betavoltaics harvest energy from radioactive decay, enabling autonomous sensing in environments unsuitable for conventional photovoltaics and chemical-based batteries.
The proposal focuses on designing an ultrathin light weight tritium betavoltaic into an NMP for integrating various scientific instruments. Tritium-powered NMPs support diverse applications, from planetary science to scouting missions for human exploration. This approach enables large-scale deployment for high-resolution remote sensing. For instance, a distributed NMP array could map lunar water resources, aiding Artemis missions. Beyond the Moon, tritium-powered platforms enable a class of missions to Mars, Europa, Enceladus, and asteroids, where alternative power sources are impractical.
Phase II objectives focus on improving energy conversion efficiency and resilience of tritium betavoltaic power sources, targeting 1-10 μW continuous electrical power with higher thermal output. The project will optimize NMP integration with sensor platforms, enhancing power management, data transmission, and environmental survivability in PSR conditions. Environmental testing will assess survivability under lunar landing conditions, including decelerations of 27,000-270,000g and interactions with lunar regolith. The goal is to advance TRL from 2 to 3 by demonstrating proof-of-concept prototypes and preparing for TRL 4. Pathways for NASA mission integration will be explored, assessing scalability, applicability, and cost-effectiveness compared to alternative technologies.
A key discovery in Phase I was the thermal-survivability benefit of the betavoltaic’s tritium metal hydride, which generates enough heat to keep electronic components operational. This dual functionality–as both a power source and thermal stabilizer–allows NMP components to function within temperature specifications, a breakthrough for autonomous sensing in extreme environments. Beyond lunar applications, this technology could revolutionize planetary science, deep-space exploration, and terrestrial use cases. It could aid Mars missions, where dust storms and long nights challenge solar power, and Europa landers, which need persistent low-power operation. Earth-based applications such as biomedical implants and environmental monitoring could benefit from the proposed advancements in betavoltaic energy storage and micro-scale sensors. The Phase II study supports NASA’s Artemis objectives by enabling sustainable lunar exploration through enhanced resource characterization and autonomous monitoring. Tritium-powered sensing has strategic value for PSR scouting, planetary-surface mapping, and deep-space monitoring. By positioning tritium betavoltaic NMPs as a power solution for extreme environments, this study lays the foundation for transitioning the technology from concept to implementation, advancing space exploration and scientific discovery.
Facebook logo @NASATechnology @NASA_Technology Share Details Last Updated May 27, 2025 EditorLoura Hall Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More NIAC TopicsSpace Technology Mission Directorate
NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts
NIAC Funded Studies
About NIAC
Autonomous Tritium Micropowered Sensors
3 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) Artist concept highlighting the novel approach proposed by the 2025 NIAC awarded selection of Autonomous Tritium Micropowered Sensors concept.NASA/Peter CabauyPeter Cabauy
City Labs, Inc.
The NIAC Phase I study confirmed the feasibility of nuclear-micropowered probes (NMPs) using tritium betavoltaic power technology for autonomous exploration of the Moon’s permanently shadowed regions (PSRs). This work advanced the technology’s readiness level (TRL) from TRL 1 to TRL 2, validating theoretical models and feasibility assessments. Phase II will refine the technology, address challenges, and elevate the TRL to 3, with a roadmap for further maturation toward TRL 4 and beyond, supporting NASA’s mission for lunar and planetary exploration. A key innovation is tritium betavoltaic power sources, providing long-duration energy in extreme environments. The proposed 5cm x 5cm gram-scale device supports lunar spectroscopy and other applications. In-situ analyses at the Moon’s south pole are challenging due to cold, limited solar power, and prolonged darkness. Tritium betavoltaics harvest energy from radioactive decay, enabling autonomous sensing in environments unsuitable for conventional photovoltaics and chemical-based batteries.
The proposal focuses on designing an ultrathin light weight tritium betavoltaic into an NMP for integrating various scientific instruments. Tritium-powered NMPs support diverse applications, from planetary science to scouting missions for human exploration. This approach enables large-scale deployment for high-resolution remote sensing. For instance, a distributed NMP array could map lunar water resources, aiding Artemis missions. Beyond the Moon, tritium-powered platforms enable a class of missions to Mars, Europa, Enceladus, and asteroids, where alternative power sources are impractical.
Phase II objectives focus on improving energy conversion efficiency and resilience of tritium betavoltaic power sources, targeting 1-10 μW continuous electrical power with higher thermal output. The project will optimize NMP integration with sensor platforms, enhancing power management, data transmission, and environmental survivability in PSR conditions. Environmental testing will assess survivability under lunar landing conditions, including decelerations of 27,000-270,000g and interactions with lunar regolith. The goal is to advance TRL from 2 to 3 by demonstrating proof-of-concept prototypes and preparing for TRL 4. Pathways for NASA mission integration will be explored, assessing scalability, applicability, and cost-effectiveness compared to alternative technologies.
A key discovery in Phase I was the thermal-survivability benefit of the betavoltaic’s tritium metal hydride, which generates enough heat to keep electronic components operational. This dual functionality–as both a power source and thermal stabilizer–allows NMP components to function within temperature specifications, a breakthrough for autonomous sensing in extreme environments. Beyond lunar applications, this technology could revolutionize planetary science, deep-space exploration, and terrestrial use cases. It could aid Mars missions, where dust storms and long nights challenge solar power, and Europa landers, which need persistent low-power operation. Earth-based applications such as biomedical implants and environmental monitoring could benefit from the proposed advancements in betavoltaic energy storage and micro-scale sensors. The Phase II study supports NASA’s Artemis objectives by enabling sustainable lunar exploration through enhanced resource characterization and autonomous monitoring. Tritium-powered sensing has strategic value for PSR scouting, planetary-surface mapping, and deep-space monitoring. By positioning tritium betavoltaic NMPs as a power solution for extreme environments, this study lays the foundation for transitioning the technology from concept to implementation, advancing space exploration and scientific discovery.
Facebook logo @NASATechnology @NASA_Technology Share Details Last Updated May 27, 2025 EditorLoura Hall Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More NIAC TopicsSpace Technology Mission Directorate
NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts
NIAC Funded Studies
About NIAC
Addressing Key Challenges To Mapping Sub-cm Orbital Debris in LEO via Plasma Soliton Detection
3 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) Artist concept highlighting the novel approach proposed by the 2025 NIAC awarded selection of the Mapping Sub-cm Orbital Debris in LEO concept.NASA/Christine Hartzell
Christine Hartzell
University of Maryland, College Park
The proposed investigation will address key technological challenges associated with a previously funded NIAC Phase I award titled “On-Orbit, Collision-Free Mapping of Small Orbital Debris”. Sub-cm orbital debris in LEO is not detectable or trackable using conventional technologies and poses a major hazard to crewed and un-crewed spacecraft. Orbital debris is a concern to NASA, as well as commercial and DoD satellite providers. In recent years, beginning with our NIAC Phase I award, we have been developing the idea that the sub-cm orbital debris environment may be monitored by detecting the plasma signature of the debris, rather than optical or radar observations of the debris itself. Our prior work has shown that sub-cm orbital debris may produce plasma solitons, which are a type of wave in the ionosphere plasma that do not disperse as readily as traditional waves. Debris may produce solitons that are co-located with the debris (called pinned solitons) or that travel ahead of the debris (called precursor solitons). We have developed computational models to predict the characteristics of the plasma solitons generated by a given piece of debris. These solitons may be detectable by 12U smallsats outfitted with multi-needle Langmuir probes.
In this Phase II NIAC award, we will address two key technical challenges that significantly effect the value of soliton-based debris detection: 1. Develop an algorithm to constrain debris size and speed based on observed soliton characteristics. Our prior investigations have produced predictions of soliton characteristics as a function of debris characteristics. However, the inverse problem is not analytically solvable. We will develop machine learning algorithms to address this challenge. 2. Evaluate the feasibility and value of detecting soliton velocity. Multiple observations of the same soliton may allow us to constrain the distance that the soliton has traveled from the debris. When combined with the other characteristics of the soliton and knowledge of the local plasma environment, back propagation of the soliton in plasma simulations may allow us to extract the position and velocity vectors of the debris. If it is possible to determine debris size, position and velocity from soliton observations, this would provide a breakthrough in space situational awareness for debris that is currently undetectable using conventional technology. However, even if only debris size and speed can be inferred from soliton detections, this technology is still a revolutionary improvement on existing methods of characterizing the debris flux, which provide data only on a multi-year cadence. This proposed investigation will answer key technological questions about how much information can be extracted from observed soliton signals and trade mission architectures for complexity and returned data value. Additionally, we will develop a roadmap to continue to advance this technology.
Facebook logo @NASATechnology @NASA_Technology Share Details Last Updated May 27, 2025 EditorLoura Hall Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More NIAC TopicsSpace Technology Mission Directorate
NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts
NIAC Funded Studies
About NIAC
Addressing Key Challenges To Mapping Sub-cm Orbital Debris in LEO via Plasma Soliton Detection
3 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) Artist concept highlighting the novel approach proposed by the 2025 NIAC awarded selection of the Mapping Sub-cm Orbital Debris in LEO concept.NASA/Christine HartzellChristine Hartzell
University of Maryland, College Park
The proposed investigation will address key technological challenges associated with a previously funded NIAC Phase I award titled “On-Orbit, Collision-Free Mapping of Small Orbital Debris”. Sub-cm orbital debris in LEO is not detectable or trackable using conventional technologies and poses a major hazard to crewed and un-crewed spacecraft. Orbital debris is a concern to NASA, as well as commercial and DoD satellite providers. In recent years, beginning with our NIAC Phase I award, we have been developing the idea that the sub-cm orbital debris environment may be monitored by detecting the plasma signature of the debris, rather than optical or radar observations of the debris itself. Our prior work has shown that sub-cm orbital debris may produce plasma solitons, which are a type of wave in the ionosphere plasma that do not disperse as readily as traditional waves. Debris may produce solitons that are co-located with the debris (called pinned solitons) or that travel ahead of the debris (called precursor solitons). We have developed computational models to predict the characteristics of the plasma solitons generated by a given piece of debris. These solitons may be detectable by 12U smallsats outfitted with multi-needle Langmuir probes.
In this Phase II NIAC award, we will address two key technical challenges that significantly effect the value of soliton-based debris detection: 1. Develop an algorithm to constrain debris size and speed based on observed soliton characteristics. Our prior investigations have produced predictions of soliton characteristics as a function of debris characteristics. However, the inverse problem is not analytically solvable. We will develop machine learning algorithms to address this challenge. 2. Evaluate the feasibility and value of detecting soliton velocity. Multiple observations of the same soliton may allow us to constrain the distance that the soliton has traveled from the debris. When combined with the other characteristics of the soliton and knowledge of the local plasma environment, back propagation of the soliton in plasma simulations may allow us to extract the position and velocity vectors of the debris. If it is possible to determine debris size, position and velocity from soliton observations, this would provide a breakthrough in space situational awareness for debris that is currently undetectable using conventional technology. However, even if only debris size and speed can be inferred from soliton detections, this technology is still a revolutionary improvement on existing methods of characterizing the debris flux, which provide data only on a multi-year cadence. This proposed investigation will answer key technological questions about how much information can be extracted from observed soliton signals and trade mission architectures for complexity and returned data value. Additionally, we will develop a roadmap to continue to advance this technology.
Facebook logo @NASATechnology @NASA_Technology Share Details Last Updated May 27, 2025 EditorLoura Hall Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More NIAC TopicsSpace Technology Mission Directorate
NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts
NIAC Funded Studies
About NIAC
Breathing Beyond Earth: A Reliable Oxygen Production Architecture for Human Space Exploration
3 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) Artist concept highlighting the novel approach proposed by the 2025 NIAC awarded selection of the Breathing Beyond Earth concept.NASA/Alvaro Romero-Calvo
Alvaro Romero-Calvo
Georgia Tech Research Corporation
The reliable and efficient operation of spacecraft life support systems is challenged in microgravity by the near absence of buoyancy. This impacts the electrolytic production of oxygen and hydrogen from water by forcing the adoption of complex multiphase flow management technologies. Still, water splitting plays an essential role in human spaceflight, closing the regenerative environmental control and life support loop and connecting the water and atmosphere management subsystems. Existing oxygen generation systems, although successful for short-term crewed missions, lack the reliability and efficiency required for long-duration spaceflight and, in particular, for Mars exploration.
During our Phase I NIAC effort, we demonstrated the basic feasibility of a novel water-splitting architecture that leverages contactless magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) forces to produce and separate oxygen and hydrogen gas bubbles in microgravity. The system, known as the Magnetohydrodynamic Oxygen Generation Assembly (MOGA), avoids the use of forced water recirculation loops or moving parts such as pumps or centrifuges for phase separation. This fundamental paradigm shift results in multiple operational advantages with respect to the state-of-the-art: increased robustness to over- and under-voltages in the cell stack, minimal risk of electrolyte leaching, wider operational temperature and humidity levels, simpler transient operation, increased material durability, enhanced system stability during dormant periods, modest water purity requirements, reduced microbial growth, and better component-level swap-ability, all of which result in an exceptionally robust system. Overall, these architectural features lead to a 32.9% mass reduction and 20.4% astronaut maintenance time savings with respect to the Oxygen Generation Assembly at the ISS for a four-crew Mars transfer, making the system ideally suited for long-duration missions. In Phase II, we seek to answer some of the key remaining unknowns surrounding this architecture, particularly regarding (i) the long-term electrochemical and multiphase flow behavior of the system in microgravity and its impact on power consumption and liquid interface stability, (ii) the transient operational modes of the MHD drive during start-up, shutdown, and dormancy, and (iii) architectural improvements for manufacturability and ease of repair. Toward that end, we will leverage our combined expertise in microgravity research by partnering with the ZARM Institute in Bremen and the German Aerospace Center to fly, free of charge to NASA, a large-scale magnetohydrodynamic drive system and demonstrate critical processes and components. An external review board composed of industry experts will assess the evolution of the project and inform commercial infusion. This effort will result in a TRL-4 system that will also benefit additional technologies of interest to NASA and the general public, such as water-based SmallSat propulsion and in-situ resource utilization.
Facebook logo @NASATechnology @NASA_Technology Share Details Last Updated May 27, 2025 EditorLoura Hall Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More NIAC TopicsSpace Technology Mission Directorate
NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts
NIAC Funded Studies
About NIAC
Breathing Beyond Earth: A Reliable Oxygen Production Architecture for Human Space Exploration
3 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) Artist concept highlighting the novel approach proposed by the 2025 NIAC awarded selection of the Breathing Beyond Earth concept.NASA/Alvaro Romero-CalvoAlvaro Romero-Calvo
Georgia Tech Research Corporation
The reliable and efficient operation of spacecraft life support systems is challenged in microgravity by the near absence of buoyancy. This impacts the electrolytic production of oxygen and hydrogen from water by forcing the adoption of complex multiphase flow management technologies. Still, water splitting plays an essential role in human spaceflight, closing the regenerative environmental control and life support loop and connecting the water and atmosphere management subsystems. Existing oxygen generation systems, although successful for short-term crewed missions, lack the reliability and efficiency required for long-duration spaceflight and, in particular, for Mars exploration.
During our Phase I NIAC effort, we demonstrated the basic feasibility of a novel water-splitting architecture that leverages contactless magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) forces to produce and separate oxygen and hydrogen gas bubbles in microgravity. The system, known as the Magnetohydrodynamic Oxygen Generation Assembly (MOGA), avoids the use of forced water recirculation loops or moving parts such as pumps or centrifuges for phase separation. This fundamental paradigm shift results in multiple operational advantages with respect to the state-of-the-art: increased robustness to over- and under-voltages in the cell stack, minimal risk of electrolyte leaching, wider operational temperature and humidity levels, simpler transient operation, increased material durability, enhanced system stability during dormant periods, modest water purity requirements, reduced microbial growth, and better component-level swap-ability, all of which result in an exceptionally robust system. Overall, these architectural features lead to a 32.9% mass reduction and 20.4% astronaut maintenance time savings with respect to the Oxygen Generation Assembly at the ISS for a four-crew Mars transfer, making the system ideally suited for long-duration missions. In Phase II, we seek to answer some of the key remaining unknowns surrounding this architecture, particularly regarding (i) the long-term electrochemical and multiphase flow behavior of the system in microgravity and its impact on power consumption and liquid interface stability, (ii) the transient operational modes of the MHD drive during start-up, shutdown, and dormancy, and (iii) architectural improvements for manufacturability and ease of repair. Toward that end, we will leverage our combined expertise in microgravity research by partnering with the ZARM Institute in Bremen and the German Aerospace Center to fly, free of charge to NASA, a large-scale magnetohydrodynamic drive system and demonstrate critical processes and components. An external review board composed of industry experts will assess the evolution of the project and inform commercial infusion. This effort will result in a TRL-4 system that will also benefit additional technologies of interest to NASA and the general public, such as water-based SmallSat propulsion and in-situ resource utilization.
Facebook logo @NASATechnology @NASA_Technology Share Details Last Updated May 27, 2025 EditorLoura Hall Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More NIAC TopicsSpace Technology Mission Directorate
NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts
NIAC Funded Studies
About NIAC
TFINER – Thin Film Isotope Nuclear Engine Rocket
2 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) Artist concept highlighting the novel approach proposed by the 2025 NIAC awarded selection of the TFINER concept.NASA/James Bickford
James Bickford
Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.
The Thin-Film Nuclear Engine Rocket (TFINER) is a novel space propulsion technology that enables aggressive space exploration for missions that are impossible with existing approaches. The concept uses thin layers of energetic radioisotopes to directly generate thrust. The emission direction of its natural decay products is biased by a substrate to accelerate the spacecraft. A single stage design is very simple and can generate velocity changes of ~100 km/s using a few kilograms of fuel and potentially more than 150 km/s for more advanced architectures.
The propulsion system enables a rendezvous with intriguing interstellar objects such as ‘Oumuamua that are on hyperbolic orbits through our solar system. A particular advantage is the ability to maneuver in deep space to find objects with uncertainty in their location. The same capabilities also enable a fast trip to the solar gravitational focus to image multiple potentially habitable exoplanets. Both types of missions require propulsion outside the solar system that is an order of magnitude beyond the performance of existing technology. The phase 2 effort will continue to mature TFINER and the mission design. The program will work towards small scale thruster experiments in the near term. In parallel, isotope production paths that can also be leveraged for other space exploration and medical applications will be pursued. Finally, advanced architectures such as an Oberth solar dive maneuver and hybrid approaches that leverage solar sails near the Sun, will be explored to enhance mission performance.
Facebook logo @NASATechnology @NASA_Technology Share Details Last Updated May 27, 2025 EditorLoura Hall Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More NIAC TopicsSpace Technology Mission Directorate
NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts
NIAC Funded Studies
About NIAC
TFINER – Thin Film Isotope Nuclear Engine Rocket
2 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) Artist concept highlighting the novel approach proposed by the 2025 NIAC awarded selection of the TFINER concept.NASA/James BickfordJames Bickford
Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.
The Thin-Film Nuclear Engine Rocket (TFINER) is a novel space propulsion technology that enables aggressive space exploration for missions that are impossible with existing approaches. The concept uses thin layers of energetic radioisotopes to directly generate thrust. The emission direction of its natural decay products is biased by a substrate to accelerate the spacecraft. A single stage design is very simple and can generate velocity changes of ~100 km/s using a few kilograms of fuel and potentially more than 150 km/s for more advanced architectures.
The propulsion system enables a rendezvous with intriguing interstellar objects such as ‘Oumuamua that are on hyperbolic orbits through our solar system. A particular advantage is the ability to maneuver in deep space to find objects with uncertainty in their location. The same capabilities also enable a fast trip to the solar gravitational focus to image multiple potentially habitable exoplanets. Both types of missions require propulsion outside the solar system that is an order of magnitude beyond the performance of existing technology. The phase 2 effort will continue to mature TFINER and the mission design. The program will work towards small scale thruster experiments in the near term. In parallel, isotope production paths that can also be leveraged for other space exploration and medical applications will be pursued. Finally, advanced architectures such as an Oberth solar dive maneuver and hybrid approaches that leverage solar sails near the Sun, will be explored to enhance mission performance.
Facebook logo @NASATechnology @NASA_Technology Share Details Last Updated May 27, 2025 EditorLoura Hall Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More NIAC TopicsSpace Technology Mission Directorate
NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts
NIAC Funded Studies
About NIAC
Photophoretic Propulsion Enabling Mesosphere Exploration
2 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater) Artist concept highlighting the novel approach proposed by the 2025 NIAC awarded selection of Photophoretic Propulsion Enabling Mesosphere Exploration concept.NASA/Igor Bargatin
Igor Bargatin
University of Pennsylvania
We propose to use the photophoretic levitation and propulsion mechanism to create no-moving-parts flying vehicles that can be used to explore Earth’s upper atmosphere. The photophoretic force arises when a solid is heated relative to the ambient gas through illumination, inducing momentum exchange between the solid and the gas. The force creates lift in structures that absorb light on the bottom yet stay cool on the top, and we engineered our plate mechanical metamaterials to maximize this lift force and payload. The levitation and payload capabilities of our plates typically peak at ambient pressures in the 0.1-1000 Pa range, ideal for applications in Earth’s mesosphere and Mars’s low gravity and thin atmosphere. For example, in the Earth’s mesosphere (i.e., at altitudes from ~50 to ~80 km), the air is too thin for conventional airplanes or balloons but too thick for satellites, such that measurements can be performed for only a few minutes at a time during the short flight of a research rocket. However, the range of ambient pressures in the mesosphere (1-100 Pa) is nearly optimal for our plates’ payload capabilities. Phase 2 of the proposal focuses on the scalable fabrication of Knudsen pump structures that will enable missions with kg-scale payloads in the mesosphere as well as trajectory control with 1 m/s velocity control in existing stratospheric balloon vehicles.
Facebook logo @NASATechnology @NASA_Technology Share Details Last Updated May 27, 2025 EditorLoura Hall Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More NIAC TopicsSpace Technology Mission Directorate
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