NASA's STTR Program Funds Innovative Small Business and Research Partnerships

NASA's STTR Program Funds Innovative Small Business and Research Partnerships
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jan 19, 2024

NASA, in its continuous effort to turn groundbreaking research into tangible technology, has announced a significant boost for small businesses through its Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program. This initiative plays a pivotal role in supporting small enterprises and their research partners, particularly during the critical early stages of technological development.

In a recent development, NASA confirmed that 21 small businesses would receive Phase II awards, each valued at up to $850,000. These funds are allocated for a 24-month period, dedicated to the development, demonstration, and delivery of innovative technologies. This step is crucial for bringing these technologies closer to being integrated into NASA missions or commercialized in the market.

A key feature of the STTR program is the mandatory collaboration between small businesses and research institutions, such as universities or Federally Funded Research and Development Centers. Jenn Gustetic, the director of Early Stage Innovation and Partnerships under the Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) at NASA, emphasized the program's focus on fostering innovative thinking through partnerships. She also highlighted NASA's commitment to inclusivity, proudly noting that a third of the partnering research institutions in this round of awards are Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs).

Among the awardees is SSS Optical Technologies, LLC, based in Huntsville, Alabama, which has partnered with Oakwood University, a Historically Black College and University also located in Huntsville. Utilizing the Phase II award, they aim to develop a novel protective coating that not only absorbs damaging UV radiation but also converts it into energy for powering solar cells. Their impressive Phase I performance showed a 5% increase in efficiency and a significant reduction in radiation damage. The next phase will focus on optimizing the coating for better efficiency and operational lifespan, with potential applications in NASA's Advanced Solar Sailing Technologies and commercial solar panels.

Jason L. Kessler, the program executive for NASA's SBIR/STTR program, underscored the unique position of the program in supporting small businesses and research institutions. The goal is to provide both funding and guidance to de-risk their technologies and demonstrate their potential impact both within and beyond NASA.

Another notable recipient of the Phase II award is Air Company Holdings from Brooklyn, New York. Collaborating with New York University, they are developing an alternative to fossil fuels - a carbon dioxide hydrogenation technology. This technology has the potential to produce sustainable rocket fuel for NASA, while also offering solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions on Earth and creating storable fuel on Mars from Martian atmosphere, water, and solar photovoltaic electricity.