Introduction
NASA’s Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) classification system is an essential tool for evaluating and managing the maturity of a technology, as well as guiding its development from conception to application. The TRL system provides a consistent framework to measure the progress of a technological solution through 9 different stages.
This article provides an overview of the TRL classification system, its importance, and the criteria for each level.
The Importance of Technology Readiness Levels
The TRL system allows researchers, engineers, project managers, and decision-makers to assess the maturity and readiness of a technology for deployment. It enables the effective management of technical risk and helps in identifying the necessary resources and time for development. By standardizing the assessment of technological progress, the TRL system supports effective communication and collaboration between stakeholders and different organizations, ensuring a shared understanding of a technology’s current status and potential.
The 9 Technology Readiness Levels
TRL 1: Basic principles observed and reported
At this initial level, scientific research begins to identify the underlying principles of a technology. There is no practical application at this stage; it is purely theoretical.
TRL 2: Technology concept and/or application formulated
Researchers develop potential applications based on the basic principles discovered in TRL 1. This stage involves the development of specific concepts for the technology.
TRL 3: Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof of concept
The technology’s proof of concept is demonstrated analytically or experimentally. This stage confirms that the technology concept has potential and can solve the intended problem.
TRL 4: Component and/or breadboard validation in a laboratory environment
The technology’s components are tested in a controlled laboratory environment. The goal is to validate the performance of individual components and ensure that they function as expected.
TRL 5: Component and/or breadboard validation in a relevant environment
The technology’s components are tested in a more realistic environment, simulating the conditions in which the technology is intended to operate. This step verifies the performance of the components in real-world scenarios.
TRL 6: System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment
This level involves testing a fully integrated system or subsystem prototype in a relevant environment. The focus shifts from individual components to the overall system, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the technology’s performance and functionality.
TRL 7: System prototype demonstration in an operational environment
The technology is tested in its intended operational environment, typically as a prototype. This stage allows for further refinement and optimization of the technology based on real-world performance data.
TRL 8: Actual system completed and qualified through test and demonstration
The technology reaches TRL 8 when it has been fully developed and tested, with results meeting or exceeding the desired performance criteria. The technology is now considered mature and ready for operational deployment.
TRL 9: Actual system proven through successful mission operations
The final level is achieved when the technology has been successfully used in its intended operational context, demonstrating its effectiveness, reliability, and overall performance.
Quick Reference
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
| TRL 1 | Basic principles observed and reported |
| TRL 2 | Technology concept and/or application formulated |
| TRL 3 | Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof of concept |
| TRL 4 | Component and/or breadboard validation in a laboratory environment |
| TRL 5 | Component and/or breadboard validation in a relevant environment |
| TRL 6 | System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment |
| TRL 7 | System prototype demonstration in an operational environment |
| TRL 8 | Actual system completed and qualified through test and demonstration |
| TRL 9 | Actual system proven through successful mission operations |