Technology Readiness Levels

Applied & Strategic Research

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 partial system validation in a laboratory environment

Technology Validation

5. Component and/or partial system validation in a relevant environment
6. System/subsystem model validation in a relevant environment

System Validation

7. System prototype demonstration in an operational environment
8. Actual system completed and service qualified through test and demonstration
9. Actual system proven through successful mission operation