Remcom Wins NASA SBIR Grant for Advanced Wireless Models in Space Exploration

In a groundbreaking development, Remcom, Inc. has been awarded a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract by NASA. This initiative aims to enhance wireless channel modeling capabilities for antennas used in astronaut spacesuits and lunar rovers, marking an important step in supporting the Artemis lunar exploration missions.

Expanding Previous Efforts

This latest contract builds on Remcom's earlier contributions to NASA's Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program. The primary focus of the project is to design robust communication systems for astronauts operating on the lunar surface, utilizing enhancements in Wireless InSite® 3D Wireless Prediction Software. This tool is set to revolutionize the way wireless communications are modeled and tested in the complex lunar environment.

Addressing Unique Challenges
Communication on the Moon presents a unique set of challenges due to the irregular geometries and layered materials present in modern spacesuits. Remcom’s new initiatives will use advanced modeling techniques to unveil how these materials affect antenna radiation and transmission behaviors. By employing Huygens surfaces, the Wireless InSite software will integrate both near-field and far-field antenna behaviors, crucial for improving communications between astronauts.

Optimizing Astronaut Communication

One of the critical advancements will be revealing the performance trade-offs associated with various antenna placements and operational protocols, such as 3GPP sidelink. This optimization is designed to facilitate device-to-device (D2D) communications, a vital component for astronaut safety and coordination, especially in dynamic lunar scenarios where line-of-sight may be disrupted.

Efficiency in Simulation

Moreover, the project plans to unveil acceleration methods that could dramatically decrease simulation runtimes, improving efficiency by one to two orders of magnitude. This means that engineers will be able to conduct simulations and analyses of wireless propagation in various dynamic scenarios much quicker and more effectively.

Broader Implications for Wireless Technologies

While the scope of this contract is tailored to the particular needs of NASA’s Artemis missions, the innovations and advancements developed during this project will have wider applications. The technologies emerging from this initiative are expected to benefit commercial wireless device designs, especially in sectors involving wearables and on-body sensors that must operate effectively in complex environments.

Greg Skidmore, Director of Propagation Software at Remcom, emphasized the significance of this project by stating, "Modeling antennas in close proximity to complex structures like spacesuits introduces new electromagnetic challenges that are not easily solved by traditional simulation methods. This contract opens a pathway to prototype unique solutions to ensure astronauts remain connected, whether they are exploring craters or engaging in operations that require communication outside of typical line-of-sight conditions."

A Legacy of Innovation

With over three decades of experience, Remcom has established itself as a leader in electromagnetic simulation and wireless propagation software that caters to both commercial users and U.S. government agencies. Their commitment to innovation, combined with exceptional customer support, equips leading engineering teams worldwide to tackle a diverse range of electromagnetic challenges while bringing their products to market more quickly.

As Remcom embarks on this promising collaboration with NASA, the space exploration community eagerly anticipates the results. This initiative not only aims to elevate the standard of communication among astronauts on the Moon but also seeks to push the boundaries of what is possible in wireless technology for years to come.