Trends in space commerce may favor down-to-earth opportunities. Each year NASA heralds the potential for licensing its myriad technologies in its Spinoff publication. The 2022 edition was just released, offering venture insight for entrepreneurs and investors.
Download this government report >
The bulk of the review is dedicated to case studies of proven successes. One feature describes a NASA-developed robotic glove and its application to manufacturing. There is also an interesting focus on space-related light research and its use in promoting better sleep-wake cycles. But those are just two examples. The publication highlights ten other real-world commercial advances, with subjects ranging from climate monitoring to farm technology.
Not to be missed is the exposé on the legendary “space pen,” first developed in the late 1960s. It ascended into the Space Technology Hall of Fame last year. The nitrogen-fueled writing instrument did not cost American taxpayers $1 million, as myth would suggest.
With its Technology Transfer Program, NASA distributes innovations to the private sector that were originally developed for its space activities. Examples of technology now waiting to be exploited more broadly—summarized in this report—include a cybersecurity approach using heartbeats for account or system access and a foldable robot that can explore tight spaces like caves or building rubble.
Tapping into this NASA program is a straightforward application process. Surprisingly, non-exclusive licenses for many technologies can be secured for as little as $5,000-to-$10,000. Arrangements are available for both domestic and non-US organizations. ■
Our Vantage Point: Startup enthusiasts can dwell on the cost of research and development for new or emerging companies. In practice, impressive technologies are available off-the-shelf from NASA at nominal cost.
Learn more at technology.nasa.gov
© 2022 Cranganore Inc. All rights reserved.
Unauthorized use and/or duplication of any material on this site without written permission is prohibited.
Image Credit: Lev at Adobe Stock.
This book is the perfect companion for the startup founder looking to raise angel-sourced capital, as well as the serial entrepreneur needing to brush up on knowledge of the asset-capture business. The book is organized into three primary sections: how to find the right investors, what investors are looking for, and closing the deal. Importantly, we learn that raising capital is 
