Description: During NASA SBIR Phase I Contract #80NSSC21C0230 Innovative Aerospace LLC developed a set of Lunar Dust Mitigation Devices (LDMDs) in response to the NASA SBIR solicitation Z13.03. It stated the desire to protect six xEMU venting components during lunar External Vehicular Exploration (EVA) from the threat that glass like lunar dust particles presents against them. It became apparent during Phase I research that mathematical models representing dust adherence and removal force and the ability to test dust mitigation devices, in a representative environment, were both lacking. Two research scientists have joined our team to develop a mathematical model during Phase II. The model intends to predict charged lunar dusts ability to adhere to xEMU surfaces and how dust particles may be removed by associated purge flows. Auburn University has previously emulated Dusty Plasma in their lab, which allows charged lunar dust to levitate above the surface. They have agreed to employ this technique to support our Phase II efforts. They intend to test a series of Protective Element samples and completed Lunar Dust Mitigation Devices (LDMD) in an enclosed chamber filled with charged, simulated lunar dust. The plan is to use observed behavioral trends and empirical data to update and ideally correlate the developed model. Having a model that predicts lunar dust particle behavior is central to the Phase II proposal. This approach allows LDMD design advancement to be based on scientific data and improves the likelihood of these elements becoming certified for flight. A set of Phase II prototypes will be fabricated using Additive Manufacturing (AM). This will allow complex internal flow geometry to be included. The chosen manufacturing technology is closely aligned with NASA intentions of using AM to reduce the logistics cost and difficulty of supplying a complex cache of spare parts.

Benefits: Many Lunar Exploration areas may benefit from Lunar Dust Mitigation Devices, primarily components that depend on inhaling or exhaling gas while prohibiting lunar dust transmission, such as purge valves and vents being protected. They may also be used to act as a breathing apparatus for astronauts within the Lunar Lander, as airborne dust presents a known crew health risk or to protect propulsion components. Development may allow dynamic movement to protect suit bearings, Lunar Rover Components and solar collection panels.

Many companies are currently developing Lunar and eventually Martian Exploration equipment that may benefit from included protection devices, including Lunar Landers, robots, solar collection panels, terrestrial mining/manufacturing. Modified forms may solve related challenges on Earth, including coal handling, cement fabrication, mining, woodworking, pharmaceutical, recycling and agriculture.