Abstract: Two problems were found in recent applications of TRLs in aerospace projects. One is how to accurately evaluate the readiness level of a given technology in a project using the TRL scale. The other is how to deal with the diversity (different types) of technologies involved in an aerospace project. To solve these problems, a technology readiness assessment (TRA) method based on three maturity characteristics is established, and this method is adapted according to the features of different types of technologies. The proposed method has been successfully applied to aerospace projects and enables great effectiveness and accuracy in assessing new technologies.

Key words: Technology readiness level, Technology readiness assessment, Maturity characteristics, Diversity of technology