Attachment A5-Topic 5-Statement of Objectives DRAFT.pdf

This is a Statement of Objectives (SOO) for Topic 5 of the NextSTEP-3 Appendix A, a NASA solicitation focused on advancing nanomaterials for space exploration applications.

The SOO establishes three primary objectives: (1) Large-Scale Nanomaterial Manufacturing—developing scalable manufacturing approaches for innovative one-dimensional and two-dimensional nanomaterial assemblages suitable for structural space applications, advancing from Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) 3-4 to target MRL 5; (2) Structural Component Applications—demonstrating innovative nanomaterials in structural components relevant to space systems with measurable performance improvements over industry-standard materials; and (3) Non-Structural Component Applications—demonstrating nanomaterials in non-structural space-relevant components or subsystems where nanomaterial-enabled performance improvements provide operational or mission benefits. The document specifies in-scope materials including carbon nanotubes, boron nitride nanotubes, graphene, and hybrids thereof, applicable to macroscale assemblies for structural applications, structural and primary/secondary structural components, and non-structural components such as sensors and actuators. Out-of-scope items include matrix-heavy composites with low nanomaterial loading, catalysis or biomedical applications, and materials lacking advancement in the state of art. Key performance outcomes require demonstrations of increased manufacturing readiness levels, improved material performance and quality, one-dimensional nanomaterial assemblages with specific strength and tenacity metrics, two-dimensional assemblages meeting defined strength specifications, component-level prototypes with measurable improvements, supply chain analyses, and transition strategies for commercial or NASA integration. Deliverables include demonstrations with supporting documentation, material samples and prototypes, technical reports, characterization data, test reports, and government engagement activities including technical meetings and site visits throughout contract performance.