Lowest level of technology readiness. Scientific research begins to be translated into applied research and development. Examples might include fun...

Once basic principles are observed, practical applications can be formulated. Examples are limited to analytic studies and experimentation.

Active research and development is initiated. Laboratory studies aim to validate analytical predictions of separate components of the technology. E...

Design, development and lab testing of technological components are performed. Here, basic technological components are integrated to establish tha...

The basic technological components are integrated together with realistic supporting elements to be tested in a simulated environment. This is a “h...

The prototype, which is well beyond that of level 5, is tested in a relevant environment. The system or process demonstration is carried out in an ...

Prototype is near, or at, planned operational system level. The final design is virtually complete. The goal of this stage is to remove engineering...

Technology has been proven to work in its final form under the expected conditions. In most of the cases, this level represents the end of true sys...

Here, the technology in its final form is ready for commercial deployment.