What types of inventions are subject to NASA ownership contests?
NASA ownership contests apply to specific types of inventions related to the agency’s mission. According to MPEP 2309, these contests cover:
“inventions having significant utility in aeronautical or space activity”
This is based on the authority granted by 42 U.S.C. 2457. Inventions that fall under this category and were made pursuant to a U.S. government contract with NASA may be subject to ownership claims by the agency. Inventors and patent applicants working on aerospace-related technologies should be particularly aware of these provisions.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2300 - Interference And Derivation Proceedings,
MPEP 2309 - National Aeronautics And Space Administration Or Department Of Energy,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure