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MMOD Shield Analysis Program Evaluates Risk and Performance

    › Benefits
    › Applications
    › Licensing and Partnering Opportunity
    › Contact Information

Researchers at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) have developed software that evaluates proposed shield configurations for probability and depth of penetration if hit by orbital debris. The Micrometeoroid and Orbital Debris (MMOD) Shield Ballistic Limit Analysis Program evaluates the performance of various shield types along with some common thermal protection and window materials. Risks of mission failures due to MMOD particles are evaluated using programs such as NASA’s BUMPER-II package, but the large numbers of ballistic limit equations vary in the validity of underlying assumptions and the accuracy of their predictions. This JSC-developed software enables a user to calculate preliminary dimensions of a shield configuration (thickness, density, and spacing) and then analyze the performance of the user-defined shield configuration over a range of relevant in-orbit impact conditions. The software is programmed in Microsoft Visual Basic® programming language for installation as a simple add-in for Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet software. This software may be released to U.S. persons only.

Microsoft, Excel, and Visual Basic are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.


Benefits
  • Effective: Allows for simple application of the MMOD shield design and analysis equations without requiring expert knowledge in the field
  • Efficient: Enables simple evaluation of competing shielding concepts in the preliminary design phase
  • Reliable: Provides consistency among users in the selection and application of relevant damage equations

Applications
  • Preliminary design and risk assessment for MMOD analysis
  • Spacecraft and satellite design

Licensing and Partnering Opportunity

This technology is being made available through JSC’s Technology Transfer and Commercialization Office, which seeks to transfer technology into and out of NASA to benefit the space program and U.S. industry. NASA invites companies to consider licensing this technology for commercial applications.


Contact Information

If you would like more information about this technology or about NASA’s technology transfer program, please contact:

Technology Transfer and Commercialization Office
NASA’s Johnson Space Center
Phone: 281-483-3809
E-mail: jsc-techtran@mail.nasa.gov
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