Science-enabling Technology
Achieving the Science Mission Directorate’s groundbreaking science goals often requires significant technological innovation—e.g., new instruments or cutting-edge capabilities. Each SMD science division—Astrophysics, Biological and Physical Sciences, Earth Science, Heliophysics, and Planetary Science—develops new technologies targeted to enable SMD science. Often, these efforts are accomplished via division-sponsored technology development or mission programs. The directorate also sponsors collaborative workshops where stakeholders examine how innovative technologies can enable Agency missions. In addition, SMD coordinates with other NASA directorates, government agencies, industry, and academia to ensure its research programs and missions have the technology they need to accomplish revolutionary science.
Technology Highlights
Revealing the Hidden Universe with Full-shell X-ray Optics at NASA MSFC
The study of X-ray emission from astronomical objects reveals secrets about the Universe at the largest and smallest spatial scales.…
Innovative Instrument Reveals Hidden Features Deep Inside the Van Allen Radiation Belts
A new instrument is using advanced detection techniques and leveraging an orbit with specific characteristics to increase our understanding of…
Carbon Nanotubes and the Search for Life on Other Planets
A NASA-developed material made of carbon nanotubes will enable our search for exoplanets—some of which might be capable of supporting…
Accelerating Informatics for Earth Science 2024
Fostering the development of productive partnerships between commercial data product developers and the science community, and exploring innovative ways to improve processing archived and real-time satellite data.
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