IV. Research & Development (R&D) & Innovation (RDI)

Mandate: To conduct fundamental and applied scientific research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge, uncovers new principles, and identifies disruptive scientific opportunities for future space applications. This division is focused on the "why" and "what's possible" from a scientific perspective, often with a longer time horizon for practical application.

Mandate: To translate scientific discoveries and theoretical concepts into tangible technologies, prototypes, and engineering solutions. This division focuses on the "how" and "can we build it," with a more direct path to product integration and operationalization.

Mandate: To act as the crucial bridge between the Science Research Division and the Technology & Engineering Development Division, ensuring that scientific breakthroughs are effectively transitioned into viable engineering projects and that technological needs inform scientific inquiry. This task force also facilitates the transfer of developed technologies to relevant project teams (Spacecraft, Lunar Operations, etc.).

• Sub-Task Forces:

• - Technology Scouting & Horizon Scanning Unit: Continuously monitors scientific advancements, emerging technologies, and disruptive innovations from external sources and internal SR division.

• - Concept Maturation & Feasibility Assessment Group: Evaluates the scientific concepts from SR for their technological feasibility, scalability, and potential application, leading to initial proof-of-concept projects.

• - Technology Demonstrator & Prototyping Team: Manages the creation of initial prototypes and technology demonstrators to validate the engineering principles derived from scientific research.

• - Knowledge Transfer & IP Management Unit: Ensures efficient transfer of knowledge, data, and intellectual property from R&D to relevant project teams, and manages TSI's R&D patent portfolio.

• - R&D Astronauts Program Management: Oversees the deployment and activities of R&D Astronauts, ensuring their scientific research and experimental engineering in space directly inform and accelerate the work of both SR and TED divisions.