NASA has chosen 15 proposals that will continue to the initial definition and analysis study of advanced space technology concepts over nine months under the $100,000Â NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts phase-one awards.
The agency said Friday the proposals cover the use of technologies such as robotics and unmanned aerial vehicles to support space exploration beyond low-Earth orbit.
“We are working with American innovators to reimagine the future of aerospace and focus our investments on concepts to address challenges of current interests both in space and here on Earth,” said Steve Jurczyk, associate administrator for NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate.
NASA said phase one awardees can apply for a further two years to perform concept development under NIAC’s $500,000 phase two.