ISS National Lab announces funding for In-Space Advanced Materials and Manufacturing

ISS National Lab announces funding for In-Space Advanced Materials and Manufacturing
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Mar 09, 2024

The International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory has announced the availability of new funding for projects that aim to advance in-space production applications, focusing specifically on the areas of advanced materials and manufacturing. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote research and development in low Earth orbit (LEO) that has the potential to benefit humanity and foster new business models.

Proposals are invited from entities capable of demonstrating innovative space-based manufacturing and production activities. These activities should not only contribute to business growth and attract capital investment but also must be scalable, sustainable, and offer the promise of recurring value. The aim is to generate demand for LEO access and create new revenue streams through these endeavors.

This funding opportunity seeks to utilize the unique conditions of space to develop, test, or improve products and processes with a clear potential for a quick and positive economic impact. Projects selected for funding will receive support for their development phase, as well as assistance with mission integration and operational aspects of their research on the ISS.

A notable example from a previous funding cycle is the project by Flawless Photonics, aimed at enhancing the production of optical fiber in space. The project leverages the microgravity environment to improve the manufacturing process of high-value glass materials such as ZBLAN, with preliminary results indicating significant improvements. The project exemplifies the potential of in-space production to reduce defects common in earth-produced optical glass and to advance manufacturing models in space.

The funding process will include a two-step proposal submission, starting with a Concept Summary review. The ISS National Lab will host an informational webinar on March 25, 2024, to provide details on ISS facilities and capabilities relevant to the funding opportunity. Registration for the webinar is required, and a recording will be available afterward.

The deadline for Concept Summary submissions is May 2, 2024, with full proposals due by July 8, 2024, for those invited to proceed. Additional information on submission guidelines and the funding opportunity can be found on the research announcement webpage.

To learn more about the ISS National Lab and its sponsored science, visit the official website.