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X-37
Work is being performed at NASA Ames on developing materials for the wing leading edge of the X-37 vehicle. Part of this is being paid for by DARPA.
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Return to Flight (RTF)
Characterization of the external foam tank has been undertaken for return to flight activities. In addition, we are investigating foam approaches for repair of the leading edge of the shuttle.
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TPSX Material Database
The Thermal Protection Materials and Systems Branch has created a web-based material properties database called "TPSX". The goal of TPSX is to provide easy and immediate access to material data for analysts, engineers and designers in the aerospace field. TPSX is an engineering tool - it should not be used as the final and definitive source for material information. Users are encouraged to seek additional information from the material Points of Contact (POC) regarding particular design applications.
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ISP
Innovative space transportation systems now in development by NASA and its partners promise a new era of scientific discovery in space. The mission of NASA's ISP program is: 1) to enable science at new destinations 2) to significantly reduce the time and cost required for spacecraft to reach their destinations 3) to allow mission planners to shift their focus from the difficulty of the journey to the science challenges at the destination.
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Mars Exploration Rovers (MER)
Two Mars Exploration Rovers landed successfully in January, 2004. Arc Jet testing and SIRCA thermal response analyses work was also completed. Ames Research Center performed afterbody aerothermal environmental predictions, and also manufactured 35 SIRCA billets for the Backshell Interface Plate (BIP), and the Transverse Impulse Rocket Cover (TIRS).
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Mars Science Laboratory (MSL)
NASA proposes to develop and to launch a roving long-range, long-duration science laboratory that will be a major leap in surface measurements and pave the way for a future sample return mission. We are looking at TPS solutions for this mission.
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UHTC Development Programs
Research Scientists and engineers at NASA Ames Research Center have had success at developing Ultra High Temperature Ceramics (UHTC's), in their new processing laboratory. These have application on vehicles with sharp leading edges. Sharp vehicles have greater cross-range capability and maneuverability, offering advantages in safety and performance.
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