Space Applications for Wireless Sensors

From ground tests to operations on orbit and on the Moon, many space applications could benefit from small, passive, wireless sensors. Eliminating wires in spacecraft could reduce launch costs through the reduction of mass and lead to reduced fabrication costs. Development of wireless Vehicle Health Monitoring Systems (VHMS) will enable more sensors and increase safety. It is for these reasons that NASA is investigating the use of wireless technology for a variety of spacecraft applications. This paper will present a survey of opportunities for universities, industry, and other governmental agencies to partner in developing new wireless sensors to address the future sensing needs.