Minute-long videos boost research for Sandia’s mission
The Valley of Death sounds like something that daredevil Evel Knievel might have jumped on his motorcycle in the 1970s. In reality, it’s a metaphor for a problem scientists face when trying to move early-stage research or discoveries into applications. Projects stall because of technical risks, funding gaps, or they are too complex to scale. In many cases, the right people lack awareness of the work and its usefulness.
“Clearing this critical hurdle is vital to upholding our national security commitments and addressing emerging challenges in real time,” said Deputy Chief Research Officer Dan Sinars, who drives the 60 Seconds of R&D initiative, which highlights innovative research with significant mission potential.
“Through research and development, Sandia is focused on creating asymmetrical advantages for the nation. The emerging capabilities, like the ones we’re spotlighting in this series, can deliver disproportionate national security value that’s difficult for adversaries to counter.”
The 60 Seconds of R&D initiative uses a series of videos to highlight Sandia’s emerging technologies. The videos aren’t intended to answer all the questions. Instead, each delivers a snapshot of something ready for further development and invites deeper investigation.
Recognizing objects at light speed
The first video showcases neuromorphic materials that can recognize what they see at the speed of light.
“This capability, which was first developed through LDRD funding, has incredible potential to transform all types of systems relying on sensor data — from GPS-denied navigation to advanced surveillance,” Laboratory Directed Research and Development senior manager John Feddema said.
Sandia will promote the videos within the Labs to highlight research that is ready for integration into mission programs and will share them outside the Labs to attract potential funding sponsors for further development and transition.
“The Valley of Death is formidable,” Dan said, “but we’re hoping that 60 seconds will be just enough to help some of these exciting advancements successfully make the jump from innovation to impact.”