NASA has revealed over $330 million in “Tipping Point” contracts granted to more than twelve companies dedicated to pioneering potentially groundbreaking space technologies. These initiatives encompass a wide spectrum of projects, from conducting in-space tests of cryogenic technologies to establishing a 4G LTE network on the Moon.

The space agency consistently welcomes applications for its numerous grant and contract opportunities, with the Tipping Point program specifically designed to support commercial space capabilities requiring additional development. As outlined in the program’s description, a technology is considered to be at a “tipping point” when an investment in a demonstration will substantially advance its maturity, enhance its integration into commercial space applications, and facilitate its availability for both governmental and commercial use.

This year’s awards, structured as multi-year contracts with defined milestones, concentrated on two primary areas: cryogenics and technologies for the lunar surface. It’s important to note that the stated amounts represent the funding allocated to progress the technologies to the next phase, not necessarily the total development cost. Here’s a concise overview of each award:

Cryogenics

• Eta Space, $27M: Conduct an in-space demonstration of a comprehensive cryogenic oxygen management system.
• Lockheed Martin, $89.7M: Perform an in-space demonstration of liquid hydrogen across more than a dozen cryogenic applications.
• SpaceX, $53.2M: Execute a flight demonstration transferring 10 tons of liquid oxygen between tanks on the Starship vehicle.
• ULA, $86.2M: Demonstrate a smart propulsion cryogenic system integrated into a Vulcan Centaur upper stage.

Lunar surface innovation

• Alpha Space Test and Research Alliance, $22.1M: Create a compact platform for testing technologies and conducting scientific investigations on the lunar surface.
• Astrobotic, $5.8M: Further develop a rapid wireless charging system intended for use on the Moon.
• Intuitive Machines, $41.6M: Design a hopper lander capable of carrying a 2.2-pound payload over a distance of 1.5 miles.
• Masten Space Systems, $2.8M: Demonstrate a versatile chemical heat and power source suitable for use during lunar nights and within craters.
• Masten Space Systems, $10M: Demonstrate precision landing capabilities and hazard avoidance systems on its Xogdor vehicle (Awarded separately under the “descent and landing” category).
• Nokia of America, $14.1M: Implement the first LTE network in space to enable communications on the lunar surface.
• pH Matter, $3.4M: Demonstrate a fuel cell designed for producing and storing energy on the Moon.
• Precision Combustion, $2.4M: Advance a cost-effective oxide fuel stack for generating power from propellants.
• Sierra Nevada, $2.4M: Demonstrate a device that utilizes solar energy to extract oxygen from lunar regolith.
• SSL Robotics, $8.7M: Develop a robotic arm that is both lighter and more affordable for use on the lunar surface, in orbit, and for “terrestrial defense” applications.
• Teledyne Energy Systems, $2.8M: Develop a hydrogen fuel cell power system with a projected lifespan of 10,000 hours.

Further details regarding the proposal process and NASA’s specific areas of interest can be found on the Tipping Point solicitation page.