Shape Memory Alloys for Regulating Thermal Control Systems (TCS) in Space (SMARTS)

This notice is provided for information purposes only. NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) awarded a firm-fixed price contract to Paragon Space Development Corporation for the effort entitled “Shape Memory Alloys for Regulating Thermal Control Systems (TCS) in Space (SMARTS)”. This award results from a competitive selection under the NASA Headquarters released NASA Research Announcement (NRA) 80HQTR19NOA01, entitled “Space Technology – Research, Development, Demonstration, and Infusion – 2019 (SpaceTech-REDDI-2019), Appendix 80HQTR19NOA01-19STMD_001, Utilizing Public-Private Partnerships to Advance Tipping Point Technologies (“Tipping Point”)”. The NASA Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) mission is to address key research and technology challenges that will advance revolutionary capabilities for both NASA exploration mission challenges and national needs, and also address the market challenges associated with providing state-of-the-art commercial space products and services. STMD’s focus is on missions beyond low Earth orbit that would enable the return of humans to the Moon for long-term exploration and utilization, followed by human missions to Mars and other destinations. The Tipping Point Appendix sought U.S. industry-led proposals for space technology demonstration projects to enable public-private partnerships managed by Programs within STMD to accelerate co-development of key capabilities for the effective utilization and exploration of space. Under this effort, Paragon will develop an integrated, fully passive, Thermal Control System (TCS) based upon morphing radiator technology, thermal joint technology, and Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) materials development. This thermal control system will be capable of maintaining supported vehicle or habitat TCS temperatures consistent with the operating temperature range of a Propylene Glycol/Water solution.