National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

NASA

NASA's mission is to pioneer the future in space exploration, scientific discovery and aeronautics research.

Research focus

NASA’s efforts in Nanotechnology are focused on developing novel concepts for the Agency’s future needs in electronics, computing, sensors, materials/structures and advanced miniaturization of all systems.  The efforts also strive to develop a highly integrated and intelligent simulation environment that facilitates rapid development and validation of future generation intelligent devices and materials.

SPOTLIGHT:

Recent highlights include: nano-aluminum/ice rocket propellant, ultrasensitive chemical sensors for monitoring trace gases and vapors, nano-structured composites for thermal isolation applications, and smart electroactive materials. The projects include advancing technology readiness levels via, both, ground-based experiments, as well as, flight demonstrations on the Shuttle, the International Space Station and DOD flight opportunities.