Unlocking Innovation at Scale: How The Aerospace Corporation Leverages Technology Transfer and Strategic Partnerships

Aerospace is leading the way in space technology by finding new solutions and technologies that will shape our future. A key part of this work is helping the commercial sector adopt these innovations, which in turn supports U.S. government missions in space and beyond.

Aerospace’s Office of Technology Transfer (OTT) plays a vital role in connecting corporate technology with the industry. This new office under the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) has made great progress over the past year, speeding up the adoption of technology at Aerospace. They’ve introduced new tools and processes, aligning more closely with customer needs and creating pathways for impactful technologies.

“Effective technology transfer is crucial for Aerospace’s innovation efforts,” said Deborah Salvaggio, a leader in the CTO office. “As a federally funded research center, we help address tough challenges and share knowledge with industry partners.”

Building for the Future

To boost innovation, OTT created “targeted tech” categories to highlight key technology transfer opportunities. This helps prioritize projects based on customer needs and potential impact.

“Using this targeted tech approach allows us to integrate technology transfer discussions early in project development,” Salvaggio explained. “This integration can lead to quicker transfers and greater benefits for Aerospace and our government partners.” OTT also supports technology transfers outside the targeted category.

OTT is also making Aerospace’s large patent portfolio more visible and reaching out to external parties interested in collaboration.

Nurturing the Strategic Acceleration of Innovation

Through the T2 Strategy Framework, OTT has backed the adoption of key technologies like the small satellite platform DiskSat and the Handle interface module. Working with Aerospace’s program offices has helped establish the groundwork for technology transfer.

“Creating a proof of concept is essential for the nation, just as is transferring that technology to industry,” said Patricia Lew, a senior project leader at Aerospace. “Initially, the focus is on making sure new technologies are viable. But industry is eager to turn these innovations into scalable, cost-effective solutions, which benefits everyone involved.”

In fiscal year 2024, OTT has identified five high-demand technologies, with more being explored. These technologies could significantly influence future space systems.

“Aerospace recognized early the potential of key innovations, such as a small satellite interface standard,” Salvaggio noted. “We are in a unique position to help turn these ideas into commercially available solutions.”