Astrotech Corporation (NASDAQ: ASTC) has submitted a proposal to NASA under the NextSTEP-3 Lunar Enabling Infrastructure Accelerator program, targeting the development of a vertical solar array system for potential use on the lunar surface.

The proposal, developed in collaboration with Skycorp Incorporated, outlines the Astrotech Vertical Solar Array Maturation (AVSAM) project, which aims to advance the Astrotech Mobile Power System (AMPS) from Technology Readiness Level 4 to TRL 6 through design, prototype integration and environmental testing.

The proposed system is designed around a 120-volt direct-current interface, providing 6 kilowatts of continuous power transfer over a 100-meter connection, bidirectional power flow, and a 10-kilowatt short-duration startup surge. If developed, the system would combine power management hardware, low-temperature cabling, connectors and thermal protection suited to the lunar polar environment.

If selected by NASA, Skycorp would lead systems engineering and technical development, while Astrotech would handle infrastructure, facilities, procurement and program financial management. The effort would culminate in an integrated system test at Astrotech's facilities in Austin, Texas.

Astrotech also stated plans to evaluate the potential development of Lunar Utilities Corporation (LUC) as a commercial lunar power service provider for NASA and private customers, including robotic charging services and power purchase agreements.

"Our objective is to help establish the electric utility infrastructure that will make sustained lunar activity possible," said Thomas B. Pickens III, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Astrotech. "We see the opportunity to apply terrestrial utility operating principles to a scalable lunar power network that can serve multiple customers."

The submission is a proposal under a NASA solicitation and does not represent a NASA award or funding commitment.