+ Go to eNTRe Web site to complete online NF1679

+ Download NF1679 (Microsoft™ Word document) to send via e-mail

New Technology Reports (NTR)

An NTR is a detailed disclosure of individual technologies or innovations—including software. A new technology is broadly defined as any invention, discovery, improvement, or innovation that was either conceived or first reduced to practice in the performance of NASA work. New technologies may occur at the system, subsystem, or component level. New technologies include new or improved techniques, methods, systems, and processes as well as new or improved products, devices, machines, materials, chemical compositions, apparatuses, articles, fixtures, tools, and software.

Why submit an NTR?
The NTR allows the Innovative Partnerships Program (IPP) to begin looking for commercial applications for the technology and to protect it as intellectual property. Publicly discussing your invention can prevent NASA from securing patent protection and reaping the benefits that can accompany intellectual property protection, so it is important that you submit the NTR first and then check with us before presenting or announcing your innovation. Also, an NTR is required for you to be eligible for a Space Act Award, the Invention of the Year Awards, and other recognition. (More awards information.) Finally, reporting technologies is required of NASA employees and contractors (see NASA Policy Directive 2091.A).

When to submit an NTR?
An NTR should be submitted as soon as you recognize you have a new invention. This may occur in the middle of a project while R&D is still ongoing, or it may be recognized at the end during normal project reporting. The process of writing programmatic and mission progress reports also may assist you in recognizing and describing a new innovation.

Most importantly, you should submit the NTR before making any public disclosure of the innovation.

How to submit an NTR?
Use the online system eNTRe to report new technology. The eNTRe system requires you to describe what motivated the development, the benefits of the technology, and possible commercial applications. The IPP is exploring additional ways to make this process even easier.