The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is soliciting proposals for its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I funding for fiscal year 2025. The document outlines various research subtopics organized by NASA’s Mission Directorates, focusing on aeronautics, exploration systems, science, and space technology. Key areas include innovative noise reduction technologies for aircraft, advanced propulsion materials, and the design of zero-emission electric aircraft, specifically targeting configurations for drones and piloted vehicles. Subtopics emphasize reducing aircraft noise, enhancing propulsion efficiency, and promoting novel aircraft designs with electric propulsion systems. The document details the expected deliverables from proposals such as research, prototypes, and technologies that align with NASA’s strategic goals. Specific technology taxonomies are provided to guide applicants in aligning submissions with NASA's priorities. By encouraging the development of cutting-edge technologies, NASA aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation within the aerospace industry while enhancing safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability in aviation. This solicitation presents a critical opportunity for small businesses to engage in advanced aeronautics research and contribute to NASA’s mission.

The Fiscal Year 2025 SBIR Phase I Research Subtopic S13.06 focuses on Dynamic Power Conversion technologies for NASA's Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS), aimed at enhancing efficiency and reliability for space missions on the Moon and other celestial bodies. The subtopic seeks innovative proposals for power conversion systems capable of generating 1 to 100 watts, addressing challenges such as high efficiency (>30%), robust designs for long lifespan (17 years), and radiation tolerance. Key areas for exploration include durable Free-Piston Stirling cycle convertors, high power density alternator designs, and reliable thermal management systems. The proposal scope explicitly excludes static conversion technologies and emphasizes the need for advanced electronic controllers that can withstand harsh environments while maximizing power density. Desired deliverables include feasibility studies and working prototypes that can be tested in laboratory conditions, ultimately contributing to the development of highly efficient Stirling power systems suitable for prolonged space missions. This initiative is a direct response to critical gaps in energy conversion identified by NASA and aligns with the objectives outlined in the Decadal Survey for planetary science exploration. The overarching goal is to enable efficient and sustainable power generation for robotic missions in dark and challenging environments, thereby advancing NASA's capabilities in space exploration.

The document outlines the procedures required for acknowledging amendments to a government solicitation, specifically addressing the submission of offers related to a project managed by NASA's Shared Services Center. It stresses that offers must acknowledge receipt of the amendment before the specified deadline, using methods such as completing specific items on the provided form or through separate communication that references the amendment. The document also details the administration of changes to contracts/orders, including the necessity of making references to the solicitation and its amendments. A crucial correction to the special notice regarding a scope description for dynamic power conversion applications is included, which calls for high-efficiency radioisotope power systems across a power range of 1 to 100 watts. The document's main purpose is to ensure compliance with procedural requirements in the solicitation process, while also correcting critical content for prospective contractors. It is part of a broader framework of government Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and grants aimed at fostering responses from qualified vendors.