NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate is calling on the U.S. aerospace community for input on nearly 190 space technology shortfalls or needs for upcoming space exploration and science missions. The goal is to prioritize investments in technology development effectively.
NASA Headquarters associate administrator Kurt Vogel emphasized the importance of an open and collaborative approach to prioritizing efforts and meeting stakeholder needs. This approach aims to maximize the impact of investments and ensure alignment with key objectives.
The space agency is seeking feedback on critical technology gaps such as cryogenic fluid management, additive manufacturing, advanced propulsion, in-situ resource utilization, and thermal management systems. By gathering input from industry, academia, government, and other stakeholders through virtual meetings, NASA hopes to create a finalized list of priority shortfalls.
This data will be used to assess current technology development initiatives and determine opportunities for new investments or adjustments within the portfolio. The deadline for providing insights is May 13. This feedback process is crucial for NASA to continue advancing technology for future space missions effectively.
Vogel stated that NASA recognizes that the aerospace community has valuable expertise and experience in these areas, and it wants to leverage this knowledge to identify gaps in existing technology that could hinder future missions’ success.
The agency plans to use this information to inform its investment strategy and ensure that its technology development efforts are aligned with its mission objectives.
In summary, NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate is reaching out to the U.S. aerospace community for input on nearly 190 space technology shortfalls or needs for upcoming space exploration and science missions. The goal is to fine-tune the strategy for prioritizing investments in technology development effectively.
NASA recognizes that collaboration with industry, academia, government, and other stakeholders will be crucial in achieving this goal successfully. The deadline for providing insights is May 13th, but it remains unclear what specific information will be gathered during these virtual meetings or how it will influence future funding decisions at NASA Headquarters.