NASA has awarded funds to 15 cutting-edge space technology concepts that could revolutionize how we explore and inhabit the solar system. From swimming robots for ocean worlds to fusion-powered satellites, these innovative ideas have the potential to ‘change the possible’ in space exploration.
Robots Designed to Explore Alien Oceans and Ice Worlds
One of the most intriguing concepts selected for NASA’s NIAC program is the Sensing with Independent Micro-swimmers (SWIM) project. This innovative idea involves using dozens of tiny, juice-box-sized robots equipped with sensors and propulsion systems to explore the ocean worlds of Enceladus, Europa, and Titan. These autonomous underwater vehicles could be the key to unlocking the secrets of these enigmatic moons, which are believed to harbor subsurface oceans potentially capable of supporting life.
Another concept, the Legged Exploration Across the Plume (LEAP), proposes a novel robotic sampling system designed to hop and jump its way across the icy surface of Saturn’s moon Enceladus. This innovative approach would allow the robot to collect material from the moon’s subsurface ocean that is ejected through its dramatic geysers, providing valuable insights into the potential habitability of this distant world.
Innovative Approaches to Building Habitats and Powering Exploration
NASA’s NIAC program is also supporting concepts that could revolutionize how we construct and power space habitats. The Lunar Glass Structure, or LUNGS, project aims to use in-situ melting of lunar glass compounds and novel blowing techniques to create large, spherical habitats on the Moon. This approach could pave the way for the establishment of sustainable lunar outposts, reducing the need to transport heavy construction materials from Earth.
Another exciting concept is the Helicity Drive, a compact and scalable fusion propulsion system that could power a constellation of satellites for multi-directional exploration of the heliosphere and beyond. This innovative technology could significantly enhance our understanding of the Sun and its interactions with the solar system, as well as enable more ambitious deep-space missions.
The Exploring Venus with Electrolysis (EVE) project proposes using electrolysis to replenish a balloon, allowing for long-duration exploration of the Venusian atmosphere. This approach could provide valuable insights into the potential habitability of Earth’s sister planet, which remains one of the most mysterious and challenging destinations in the solar system.
Finally, the Hy2PASS concept aims to use hydrogen hybrid fuel for sustainable commercial transport aircraft, showcasing the potential for space technology to have a positive impact on Earth-based transportation and reduce our environmental footprint.
Expanding the Boundaries of Space Exploration and Observation
The NIAC program is also supporting concepts that could expand our ability to observe and study the universe. The Inflatable Starshade for Earthlike Exoplanets project seeks to enable a telescope to observe exoplanets, or planets orbiting other stars, by using an innovative starshade design. This technology could help us better understand the diversity of planetary systems and potentially identify Earth-like worlds that could harbor life.
Another concept, the X-ray Interferometry for Supermassive Black Holes, aims to use advanced X-ray interferometry techniques to study the properties of supermassive black holes, the massive and enigmatic objects at the centers of most galaxies. This research could lead to a deeper understanding of the physics of these celestial behemoths and their role in shaping the evolution of galaxies.
The NIAC program’s support for these groundbreaking ideas highlights NASA’s commitment to fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in space exploration. While not all of these concepts may reach the point of being deployed in space, the insights and advancements gained through the research and development process can have far-reaching impacts, paving the way for future breakthroughs and inspiring the next generation of space pioneers.
