Technology readiness level

NASA TRL Meter

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Technology readiness level (TRL) is a method used to estimate the maturity of a particular technology during its development and in some cases during its early deployment. It was originally developed by NASA in the 1970s and has since been adopted by various organizations, including the European Space Agency (ESA), the United States Department of Defense (DoD), and the European Commission.

Overview

The TRL scale ranges from 1 to 9, with each level representing a different stage of technological maturity. The levels are as follows:

• 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 laboratory environment.
• TRL 5: Component and/or breadboard validation in 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.

Applications

TRLs are used in various fields to assess the maturity of technologies. They are particularly useful in project management and research and development to make informed decisions about technology investments and to manage risks associated with technology development.

Related Concepts

• Technology readiness assessment
• Innovation management
• Product lifecycle management
• Research and development

See Also

• NASA
• European Space Agency
• United States Department of Defense
• European Commission