Affordable Vehicle Avionics (AVA)

About this technology

Overview

NASA Ames Research Center has developed a novel low-cost, self-contained Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) subsystem for developers and operators of small-payload Space Launch Vehicles (SLVs). Small satellites are becoming ever more capable of performing valuable missions for both government and commercial customers. However, currently these satellites can only be launched affordably as secondary payloads which makes it difficult for the small satellite mission to launch when needed into the desired orbit, and with acceptable risk. NASA's Affordable Vehicle Avionics (AVA) technology offers access to space for small-payload SLV operators with an ability to provide dedicated launch to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), when and where they need. AVA demonstrates a self-contained GNC subsystem that can be integrated and operated at a fraction of the recurring costs of existing units.