Fluffy Layer Ultra-low-Force Soil Compression ANalyser (FLUFSCAN)

Cislune Inc., along with Dr. Fontes from Westmont College and Dr. Phil Metzger from the University of Central Florida, propose the Fluffy Layer Ultra-low-Force Soil Compression Analyzer (FLUFSCAN). This innovation addresses crucial gaps in understanding and mitigating plume-surface interactions (PSI) during lunar and planetary landings, aiming to significantly enhance mission safety and reliability. Leveraging a novel combination of ground-based laser instrumentation and penetrometry, FLUFSCAN measures the compaction and cohesion of lunar soil, enabling precise modeling of regolith erosion. Phase I funding will be utilized for experimental characterization of regolith compaction and erosion, development and prototyping of PSI-specific flight instrumentation, and calibration of numerical models to predict PSI effects. The target market includes NASA, commercial space companies, and international space agencies, with potential commercialization through mission integration and technology licensing. This proposal integrates advanced computational modeling, empirical data analysis, and innovative instrumentation design to provide a comprehensive solution for PSI challenges, setting a foundation for safer lunar and planetary explorations.