From idea to flight demonstration
NASA follows a systematic approach to mature and test new technologies: identify needs, fund research and development, perform ground testing, validate in relevant environments, then demonstrate in space. This reduces risk before technologies are used in critical missions.
Typical steps include:
- Technology concept and requirements definition.
- Laboratory and component-level testing.
- Integrated systems testing in simulated environments.
- Suborbital or small-satellite demonstrations.
- Full-scale flight demonstrations on larger missions.
Program examples and benefits
- Technology Demonstration Missions or programs like Tipping Point fund private companies to prove capabilities.
- Suborbital flights, sounding rockets, and the International Space Station provide platforms for testing.
This staged process ensures cost-effective maturation of technologies ranging from advanced propulsion to life-support systems, so they can be reliably integrated into future science and exploration missions.