FA9453-21-S-0001-Call015 - Space Strategic Technology Institute (SSTI) IV - Advanced Remote Sensing
ID: SSTI4_Call015Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA9453 AFRL RVKKIRTLAND AFB, NM, 87117, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - MILITARY; BASIC RESEARCH (AC11)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/8386dedceaaf4a029faf6adb90b6c3f3/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the United States Space Force (USSF), is seeking proposals for the Space Strategic Technology Institute (SSTI) IV - Advanced Remote Sensing initiative, aimed at addressing critical space science and technology challenges. This opportunity invites teams of universities and eligible domestic entities to collaborate on applied research that leads to advancements in remote sensing capabilities, with a focus on developing testbeds, prototypes, and technologies that can transition into practical applications for USSF and the broader U.S. Government. The total federal funding for this call is approximately $16.8 million, with awards expected to last up to 36 months, and white papers must be submitted by January 10, 2025. Interested parties can contact Joseph Cox at joseph.cox.35@spaceforce.mil for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Joseph Cox
    joseph.cox.35@spaceforce.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Attachment I - Statement of Objectives.docx
    The Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate is soliciting information as part of the United States Space Force's initiative to establish Space Strategic Technology Institutes (SSTIs) that focus on Advanced Remote Sensing (ARS). These institutes aim to tackle space science and technology challenges by collaborating with at least three partnering universities. The SSTIs will support applied research leading to significant advancements in remote sensing capabilities, emphasizing the creation of testbeds and prototypes that can transition into practical applications for USSF and the broader U.S. Government. Three categories of technology are outlined for research: novel sensor technologies, advanced sensemaking technologies, and enabling technologies for enhanced sensing architectures. Teams are encouraged to propose innovative approaches that surpass current technologies, address future threats, and incorporate multidisciplinary strategies. Key focus areas include improving sensor performance, data fusion, and new sensor architectures, with an emphasis on producing measurable advantages over existing systems. This effort highlights the USSF's commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities in areas like space superiority and missile tracking, through leveraging advanced academic and industry partnerships for transformational space technologies.
    Attachment II - STAR FISH White Paper Template Call 015.docx
    The Space Technology Advanced Research-Fast-tracking Innovative Software and Hardware (STAR-FISH) initiative seeks to attract proposals through a structured white paper submission process for Call 015, focusing on the Space Strategic Technology Institute (SSTI) and Advanced Remote Sensing (ARS). The submission guidelines emphasize strict adherence to formatting, a maximum of nine pages, and the use of clear organizational prompts that align with evaluation criteria. The white paper must define the operational problem the proposed innovation addresses for the Air Force, articulate the relevance and alignment with Air Force needs, and demonstrate scientific and engineering viability. Additionally, a detailed project plan, including timelines, budget estimates, and key performance indicators, is required to showcase how the proposal provides benefit to the Air Force. Proposals must also indicate funding availability and potential partnerships if additional resources are needed. The overall aim is to generate innovative solutions for contemporary challenges faced by the Air Force, culminating in a best-value proposition. The STAR-FISH program reflects a commitment to advancing space technology and enhancing operational capabilities via collaborative innovation.
    Attachment III - STAR Evaluation Criteria (SSTI 4).docx
    The Space Technology Advanced Research (STAR) Evaluation Criteria outlines a comprehensive framework for assessing proposals related to Air Force challenges. The criteria consist of several dimensions with defined sub-dimensions that evaluate problem definition, product summary, relevance to Air Force needs, innovation, scientific and engineering viability, project planning, value/cost benefits, funding availability, and overall proposal quality. Each dimension is weighted based on its importance, with a notable emphasis on the operational impact (27%) and scientific feasibility (27%) of the proposed solutions. Evaluators seek to determine how well-defined the problem is, the clarity of the proposed solution, the operational significance of the innovation, and the credibility of the project plan, including cost estimates and measurement approaches. Additionally, the proposal's writing quality and data support are considered critical for overall effectiveness. This structured evaluation is essential for ensuring that selected proposals align with Air Force priorities and have a strong likelihood of successful implementation, thereby enhancing operational capabilities and addressing critical challenges.
    Attachment IV - Deliverables and Reporting Checklist (SSTI 4).docx
    The document outlines the reporting requirements for a federal award under Call Number FA9453-21-S-0001, detailing expectations for project management, scientific and technical, closeout, and other reporting categories. Key management reporting includes quarterly submission of the Research Performance Progress Report, financial reports (SF-425), and monthly reimbursement requests (SF-270). Scientific reporting mandates include journal articles and datasets, with all public releases requiring prior approval from the Program Manager. Closeout procedures necessitate final reports summarizing project outcomes, property reports, and software submissions within specified timelines. Additionally, recipients must adhere to intellectual property reporting and annual audits for federal funding compliance. The overall structure emphasizes the transparency and accountability needed in managing federal funds and project outcomes while promoting technological advancements and collaborations among academia and government entities.
    SSTI IV ARS - STAR-FISH Call 015.docx
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is issuing an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Space Technology Advanced Research-Fast-tracking Innovative Software and Hardware (STAR-FISH)," focusing on spaceflight and related technologies. The ARA invites white papers for research in Advanced Space Power and Propulsion under Topic Area 1: Space Strategic Technology Institute (SSTI). White papers must be submitted by January 10, 2025, with selected submissions leading to detailed proposals later. The total federal funding for this call is estimated at approximately $16.8 million, with awards expected to last up to 36 months, extendable by 6 months for final reporting. Participation is limited to eligible domestic entities, including universities and small businesses, while foreign entities are excluded. Proposals will be evaluated based on specific criteria provided in the announcement. The ARA encourages continuous monitoring of updates on SAM.gov to ensure compliance with changing requirements. Moreover, the document outlines critical submission guidelines, evaluation processes, contract types, and restrictions related to national security and export control laws, underscoring the strategic relevance of the projects being proposed. Overall, this ARA seeks innovative solutions for enhancing U.S. spacecraft capabilities in a dynamic technological landscape.
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