The program is designed to develop advanced technology concepts and methodologies for application by industry, provide the foundation for focused programs to address national needs, respond quickly to critical safety and other issues, and provide facilities and expert consultation for industry during their product development.
Upper stages provide spacecraft with the means to transfer from one orbit to another.
As an oxidizer, peroxide offers the potential to lower operations costs substantially for future transportation systems. Artist's Concept of the ProSEDS Experiment The Space Transfer Technology project is reducing propellant and propulsion system mass, to enable the use of smaller launch vehicles and thus reduce launch costs. The increased propulsion efficiency reduces trip times and the risk and cost for exploration missions. Several technologies are being examined, including tethered systems, electric propulsion, aero-assist, lightweight components, cryogenic fluid management, and advanced chemical engines. The Interstellar Precursor project is developing technologies to enable robust exploration of nearby interstellar space and other Space Science Enterprise precursor missions.