NASA is seeking novel dust mitigation technologies that could be used for lunar applications. They are interested in a wide range of industry solutions for issues including reducing dust clouds upon landing, difficult dust removal from spacesuits and other surfaces, dust obstruction of optical systems, and in-cabin particulate levels, among others. Lunar dust is one of the principal issues cited in returning to the moon. Lunar dust is difficult to remove or mitigate as it is extremely abrasive, highly cohesive, electrically charged, and small in size. In addition to threatening astronaut health, lunar dust issues have also resulted in wrong instrument readings, vision/optical system obscuration, performance reduction, altered thermal properties, and equipment failure. Many terrestrial industries such as mining, food, and cosmetics, have created unique dust mitigation technologies. NASA would like to explore these innovations as potential solutions to lunar dust issues, as well as better understand dust-related standards and regulations.
Award: $30,000
Open Date: September 16, 2019
Close Date: January 9, 2020
Frequency: Once
For more information, visit https://www.yet2.com/active-projects/seeking-dust-mitigation-technologies/