Advanced Space Science and Technology (ASST)

Organization
University of California, Santa Cruz, Jack Baskin School of Engineering

Project Leader
Bin Chen

Summary
The Advanced Space Science and Technology (ASST) project is working to enable future space exploration missions, both of a long-duration human and robotic nature. To that end, the ASST conducts multidisciplinary research in the development of space-applicable technology made possible by the use of novel materials. The first goal of ASST research, therefore, is to understand the fundamental physical properties of materials. That information can then be used to modify and synthesize new composite materials for application in molecular and biomarker sensing, radiation detection and protection, and energy storage and harvesting. Ultimately, ASST’s mission is to develop advanced materials for next-generation-detection techniques to aid in the search for signs of life beyond Earth, for radiation shielding, and for power generation, particularly during the conduct of future NASA missions.

Project Description

The ASST is currently developing new materials that have several desirable characteristics, including: (1). high-sensitivity and broad-spectrum-range, active-spectroscopy sensing; (2). light-weight and multifunctional; (3). low-profile form factor -- may be made conformal, flexible or integrated into structural components in spacecraft and vehicle coating; and (4). energy harvesting and radiation shielding.

Among the novel classes of materials currently under study by ASST researchers are semiconductor nanomaterials, luminescent polymers, plasmonic metamaterials, and lightweight, composite materials that exhibit high electric and thermal conductivity under appropriate conditions. Composite materials that sustain extreme radiation and other extreme physical conditions are of special interest because they can be used to design compact devices and deployable structures that convert solar, wind and mechanical energy to electric power. Similarly, composite materials with improved spectral sensitivity can be utilized very effectively in detection devices for in situ, subsurface (remote) and retrieved-sample characterization. ASST researchers have successfully applied plasmonic materials in Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) for high-throughput and rapid detection and characterization of geologic materials.

One important embedded component of the ASST is the Nanomaterials and Radiation Laboratory (NARL) led by Qibing Pei of the University of California, Los Angeles. Under Pei’s leadership, NARL investigators are developing and assessing dual -use materials capable of detecting, and offering protection from, the kind of highly energized space particles that may be encountered in national security and space missions.

Whether exploration strategies involve remote probes, landed vehicles or human missions, the ability to exploit, and adapt to, space and/or planetary environments is critical. It is the determining factor that allows us to maximize effective energy utilization for the conduct of scientific experiments, data storage and communications, transportation, and maintenance of vehicle and instrumentation integrity.

It is the mission of the ASST to pursue the kinds of solution-oriented practical research critical to achieving success in each of these arenas.

The Advanced Space Science and Technology project is led by Bin Chen, an adjunct professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering in the Jack Baskin School of Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz.

Back to Affiliates Page