Seattle Photonics Associates to Apply ISF Technology and Space Institute Grant Funding

Seattle Photonics Associates, a recent National Space Biomedical Research Institute (NSBRI) grant recipient, is developing in-flight retinal imaging technology for possible use in space. The novel imaging technology builds on work supported by Intellectual Ventures’ Invention Science Fund (ISF). The aim is for Seattle Photonics Associates to enhance capabilities to unobtrusively and accurately monitor changes in astronauts’ eyes due to extended exposure to microgravity.

“We are really excited to work with NSBRI along with ISF on a project that makes human space travel safer. The opportunity to expand optical diagnostic capabilities to space-based platforms is technically challenging, however we’re very well positioned with our expertise and experience to be able to leverage much of the new technology in the medical and commercial arenas,” said Ned Nestorovic, President and Chief Optical Officer at Seattle Photonics Associates.

“ISF has developed a number of imaging innovations with exciting applications in the health and medical sectors and we’re proud to work with Seattle Photonics Associates, along with the support of NSBRI, to demonstrate how these innovations can provide benefits in such a unique environment,” said Kate Sharadin a Senior Director at ISF. “The technologies being studied are at the front and center of the future of healthcare delivery where patients will benefit from unobtrusive, passive technologies known as healthcare anytime, anywhere.” ISF is providing Seattle Photonics Associates with a development license pertaining to the novel imaging technology on which the study is based.

“This type of partnership facilitated by the Space Medical And Related Technologies Commercialization Assistance Program (SMARTCAP) grant is exactly what is needed to attain space-relevant medical solutions in a timely and cost-effective manner. We approached ISF and Seattle Photonics with this out-of-this-world challenge because we believe that they can deliver,” said Dr. Dorit Donoviel, Deputy Chief Scientist and Industry Forum Lead for NSBRI.

The proof of concept of the novel imaging technology being developed by Seattle Photonic Associates is scheduled for demonstration by mid-2017. If operationalized, this technology may have utility in the early diagnosis of the pathology developed by some astronauts during long duration missions on the International Space Station.