Technology Readiness Levels Summary

1

Basic principles observed and reported

2

Technology concept and/or application formulated

3

Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof-of-concept

4

Component and/or breadboard validation in laboratory environment

5

Component and/or breadboard validation in relevant environment

6

System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment (ground or space)

7

System prototype demonstration in a space environment

8

Actual system completed and “flight qualified” through test and demonstration (ground or space)

9

Actual system “flight proven” through successful mission operations