Nanotechnology: Applications to Space Exploration

The convergence of 1) the intensification of space exploration and 2) the increasing understanding of the world at the atomic and molecular level, nanotechnology, has resulted in a synergy of discoveries and innovations. The result of this synergy may result in leaps in the exploration beyond the surface of the earth but also improve life on our home planet.

The content describes the challenge of escaping the earth’s surface, remaining in orbits around our planet, and landing and surviving on worlds away. The associated space environments and variables are covered in general terms and not in an encyclopedic manner. Discoveries in the nanotechnology arena as they can be applied to space exploration are also covered in an understandable manner.

This book is  a must for people who are working in the “space” industry who need to know not only more about the many aspects of their industry but also must understand nano-scale implications for the future. Likewise, participants in the nanotechnology arena who want to understand the challenges of space exploration will find critical information in this text.

History of Space Exploration.- History of Nanotechnology.- The Convergence of Space Exploration and Nanotechnology.- Challenges to Getting “There” and Staying There.- Answering the Challenge: Research, Benefits and Applications of Nanotechnology.- Multi-Application Nanomaterials.- What’s Next?.

Deb Newberry’s involvement in research, emerging technology, and nanotechnology has spanned several decades. She also served as the Director/Instructor of the Nanoscience Technician program at Dakota County Technical College in Rosemount MN from 2004–2018. She created the 72-credit nanoscience technician program in 2003 and began the program with National Science Foundation funding. Deb also served as the Director and Principal Investigator of the Center for Nanotechnology Education, Nano-Link, for over 10 years. Nano-Link has been funded by over $12M from the National Science Foundation. Nano-Link educational content, developed by Deb, has been used by over 900 educators and has reached over 100,000 students. She is a nanotechnology book author and co-author, has written over 12 book chapters, is an IEEE Distinguished Lecturer, and presented more than 250 presentations and scores of educator workshops. Deb Newberry is currently serving as CEO of Newberry Technology Associates (NTA),a company that provides expertise in organizational structure and efficiency, emerging technologies, strategic planning, technology evolution, and product development. The NTA team performs business and competitive analysis for multiple technologies including nanotechnology, electronics, photonics, material science, additive manufacturing, and biotechnology. The strategic focus determines how emerging technologies may impact products, companies, and market segments. Prior to her career in education, Deb worked in the corporate world for 24 years performing thermal and radiation testing and analysis on satellite systems and then serving as Executive Director managing over $450M in satellite programs. Deb Newberry led a national committee with a focus on determining the impact of nanotechnology on satellite electronics and has served on multiple advisory boards as well as state and national commissions. She is a Senior member of professional organizations such as the IEEE,ACS,MRS, RCS, and ASEE and serves on multiple conference planning committees.