The project looks at lightweight, multifunctional materials technology tailored for use in extreme space environments. These extreme environments include those found on orbit, on the surfaces of planetary bodies such as the Moon and Mars, in the atmospheres of planetary bodies such as Venus or the Earth and Mars, especially during (re)entry. The extreme environments relevant to space exploration and science also include those found inside spacecraft and surface systems. Examples of the extreme environments inside spacecraft and surface systems include those found in the reactors, heat exchangers and other components in nuclear thermal propulsion, nuclear electric propulsion as well as surface nuclear power generation and distribution. Extreme environments are also found in other spacecraft and surface systems such as thermal control loops, radiators and electronics assemblies supporting habitats, science instruments, vehicles and spacesuits. The multifunctional materials technology aims to provide structural, thermal, radiation resistance and electrical functions, among others in conditions of extreme maximum and minimum temperatures, temperature cycling, abrasive dust, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, corrosive refrigerants and fuels as well as ultrahigh vacuum. The multifunctional materials technology to address these challenges includes zero, one and two-dimensional nanomaterials, thermoset and thermoplastic polymer matrix composites incorporating the nanomaterials and ceramic matrix composites such as carbon-carbon. Nanomaterials such as carbon and boron nitride nanotubes, graphene and metallic nanowires and particles provide a range of properties not found in the bulk due in part to their large specific surface area and other phenomena that occur at the nanoscale. Direct use of those nanomaterials or their incorporation into suitable matrixes provides materials technology for spacecraft and surface systems components suited for various applications in extreme environments.

Lightweight, multifunctional materials technology such as nanotubes and their thermosetting and thermoplastic polymer and ceramic matrix composites can contribute to closing numerous shortfalls for Civil Space identified and prioritized by the Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) and its stake holders. The materials technology can be utilized in a multitude of applications requiring ultra-stiff structural members, electrically and thermally conductive reinforcements or those needing flexible, high tenacity, and radiation resistant components. Advancing and developing high-performance materials for space applications empowers space exploration and science. By designing and creating cutting-edge materials capable of withstanding the extreme conditions of space, this technology development aims to expand the capabilities of in-space vehicles for longer-duration and sustained missions, deeper human and robotic exploration of the solar system. By addressing pressing challenges such as radiation, temperature extremes, and microgravity, the materials technology will push the boundaries of material science, ultimately supporting ambitious space exploration and science objectives.