Ouija Satellite Guest Investigator Data Challenge
ID: DARPA-SN-25-15Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY (DARPA)DEF ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGCYARLINGTON, VA, 222032114, 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; EXPERIMENTAL DEVELOPMENT (AC13)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/3a33faa99e1a45188977cebe50076c5a/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is initiating a Request for Information (RFI) for the Ouija Satellite Guest Investigator Data Challenge, aimed at leveraging data from the upcoming Ouija satellite, scheduled for launch in June 2025. This satellite will operate in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) and is equipped with scientific instruments designed to analyze the high-frequency noise environment in space, enhance the characterization of the ionosphere, and validate HF propagation predictions. The initiative seeks to engage Guest Investigators (GIs) who can propose innovative research projects that utilize the unique datasets generated by the Ouija mission, potentially addressing significant scientific challenges related to ionospheric dynamics and global phenomena. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their qualifications and research proposals to DARPA at DARPA-SN-25-15@darpa.mil, as this RFI may lead to future funding opportunities for selected GIs.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Coordinator
    DARPA-SN-25-15@darpa.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    DARPA-SN-25-15.pdf
    The DARPA-SN-25-15 document outlines a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the Ouija program, which anticipates launching a satellite in very low Earth orbit (VLEO) in June 2025. The satellite will carry scientific instruments to analyze the high-frequency noise environment, enhance ionospheric characterization, and validate HF propagation predictions. DARPA seeks Guest Investigators (GI) to leverage the satellite's data for groundbreaking research, potentially addressing significant scientific problems related to ionosphere dynamics and global phenomena. Interested parties must submit qualifications and research proposals, focusing on the benefits of accessing the Ouija dataset. The initiative aims to foster a science community while paving the way for possible future funding opportunities. The RFI emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and the insights that could emerge from the novel data collected. Overall, this RFI serves as a precursor to a potential future GI solicitation by assessing interest and innovative research ideas within the scientific community.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Ouija Satellite Guest Investigator Data Challenge
    Currently viewing
    Special Notice
    Similar Opportunities
    Request for Information: Quantum Entanglement-Enhanced Novel Sensing (QUEENS)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking information on the application of quantum entanglement in novel sensing technologies through its Request for Information (RFI) identified as DARPA-SN-25-18. The objective is to gather insights that will guide future investments in quantum sensor architectures and interconnects, focusing on two main research thrusts: Heterogeneous Architectures for integrating various quantum media and Homogeneous Architectures aimed at enhancing entangled sensor systems. This initiative highlights the potential of quantum entanglement to improve measurement precision and reduce noise in sensing applications critical to defense and research. Responses to the RFI are due by January 15, 2025, and interested parties can contact the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-SN-25-18@darpa.mil for further information.
    ADVANCED RESEARCH ANNOUNCEMENT (ARA) TITLE: CHARACTERIZATION AND ASSESSMENT FOR SPACE DOMAIN AWARENESS (SDA)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Department of the Air Force's Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), has issued an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Characterization and Assessment for Space Domain Awareness (SDA)." This initiative aims to develop innovative technologies for enhancing capabilities in intelligent tasking, data collection, processing, and analysis related to space superiority and awareness, with a focus on areas such as automated pattern recognition and multi-source data fusion. The total funding for this ARA is approximately $99 million, and it remains open until July 12, 2029, with initial submissions required in the form of white papers. Interested parties should direct inquiries to Carolyn Sheaff at Carolyn.Sheaff@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at Amber.Buckley@us.af.mil, and adhere to the specified submission guidelines to ensure compliance and successful evaluation.
    REQUEST FOR INFORMATION - Kodiak Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) - Potential Partnerships
    Active
    National Aeronautics And Space Administration
    NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to explore potential partnerships for the Kodiak Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) Engineering Test Unit and associated spaceflight hardware. The RFI aims to gather insights on alternative use cases that can advance commercial, civil, and national objectives, particularly in the areas of In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM). This initiative is crucial for leveraging LiDAR technology to enhance domestic capabilities in relevant fields. Responses are encouraged from a wide range of domestic organizations, and submissions must be received by January 10, 2025. For further inquiries, interested parties can contact Odessia Becks at Odessia.H.Becks@nasa.gov or Pauline Barrett at sislyn.p.barrett@nasa.gov.
    Request for Information (RFI) GEO Ground System Sustainment & Evolution
    Active
    Commerce, Department Of
    The Department of Commerce, specifically the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the sustainment and evolution of the Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) Ground System. The primary objective of this RFI is to gather insights on innovative technological capabilities that will enhance multi-mission support for upcoming satellite missions, including the Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO) and Space Weather missions, while maintaining the existing GOES system and minimizing lifecycle costs. This initiative is crucial for ensuring the continuous flow of critical environmental data necessary for public safety and disaster response. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their responses by January 24, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Gerald Robertson at gerald.robertson@noaa.gov or Tamalia Adams at tamalia.adams@noaa.gov.
    SIGNALS INFORMATION EXPLOITATION TECHNOLOGY ENHANCEMENTS (SIETE)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is announcing an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Signals Information Exploitation Technology Enhancements (SIETE)," aimed at soliciting innovative research to enhance signal processing and analytics for adversarial systems. The ARA seeks proposals that focus on developing algorithms and methodologies applicable to Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms, with an emphasis on Open System Architecture for interoperability and compliance with security regulations. With a total funding amount of approximately $99.9 million available until December 31, 2026, individual awards typically range from $1 million to $5 million, with potential larger awards up to $24.9 million. Interested parties should direct inquiries and white paper submissions to Charles Estrella at charles.estrella@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil, ensuring adherence to submission guidelines and deadlines.
    Nuclear Thermal Rocket Propulsion RFI
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking innovative solutions for space-qualified nuclear thermal rocket propulsion engine design and integration through a Request for Information (RFI). This initiative aims to identify sources capable of providing advanced capabilities in engine design, modeling, simulation, and autonomous control, with a focus on safety analysis for nuclear launch authorization from the Department of Defense. The RFI is part of DARPA's collaboration with NASA's DRACO program, which seeks to enhance U.S. military capabilities and support future human missions to Mars by developing a compact nuclear thermal rocket engine fueled by high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU). Responses to this RFI are due by January 20, 2025, and interested parties can contact the TTO BAA Coordinator at DARPA-SN-25-21@darpa.mil for further information.
    SPACE TECHNOLOGY ADVANCED RESEARCH-FAST-TRACKING INNOVATIVE SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE (STAR-FISH) ADVANCED RESEARCH ANNOUNCEMENT (ARA) WITH CALLS
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is seeking proposals for the Space Technology Advanced Research-Fast-Tracking Innovative Software and Hardware (STAR-FISH) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA). This initiative aims to foster research and development in space-related technologies, focusing on areas such as spacecraft functionality, mission capabilities, anomaly detection, and command and control in contested environments. The ARA is designed to enhance national defense capabilities through innovation, with funding for individual proposals ranging from $50,000 to $100 million. Interested parties can reach out to the primary contact, Daniel J. Alvarado, at daniel.alvarado.12@spaceforce.mil or 505-853-4755, for further information, as there is no specified due date for submissions at this time.
    FA9453-21-S-0001-Call015 - Space Strategic Technology Institute (SSTI) IV - Advanced Remote Sensing
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Space Force (USSF), is seeking proposals for the Space Strategic Technology Institute (SSTI) IV - Advanced Remote Sensing initiative, aimed at addressing space science and technology challenges through collaborative research with universities. The primary objective is to develop transformational technologies that enhance space capabilities, focusing on advanced sensor technologies, sensemaking technologies, and enabling technologies to support advanced sensing architectures. This initiative is critical for advancing national security and operational effectiveness in space operations, with an anticipated funding amount of approximately $16.8 million and a performance period of up to 42 months for selected awards. Interested parties must submit white papers by January 10, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Joseph Cox at joseph.cox.35@spaceforce.mil.
    Next Generation Surveillance Array Request for Information
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR), is conducting a Request for Information (RFI) to gather insights for the future acquisition of a Next Generation Surveillance Array (NGSA). This initiative aims to develop a passive towed multi-line acoustic sensor designed for integration within the Surveillance Towed Array Sensor System (SURTASS) Program, with the goal of enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities. The NGSA will be utilized on Auxiliary General Ocean Surveillance Ships (T-AGOS) and other SURTASS host platforms, emphasizing its strategic importance in undersea warfare operations. Interested parties can direct inquiries to Contract Specialist Robert C. Wiley at robert.c.wiley22.civ@us.navy.mil or by phone at 619-822-9670.
    OUSD R&E Seeks Industry Collaboration to Close Critical Capability Gaps
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DoD) issues a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) under the auspices of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD R&E). The goal is to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative technologies to address critical capability gaps in defense applications. This opportunity seeks to foster collaboration between the DoD and industry partners. The focus is on exchanging developmental capabilities and maturing technologies, specifically those falling within Technology Readiness Levels 3 through 7. The DoD aims to establish non-funded Information Exchange Agreements (IEAs) to facilitate the exchange of technical information. Additionally, Other Transaction (OT) agreements will be considered for research, prototyping, and potential follow-on production. The BAA encourages submissions from a diverse range of organizations, including large businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, and minority institutions. These submissions should address specific Capability Focus Areas (CFA) detailed in periodic amendments. The initial CFA seeks concepts and technologies for assured space operations and improved multi-domain collaborative autonomy. Interested parties should submit concise white papers or presentations outlining their concepts, technologies, or solutions. White papers should be limited to two pages, while presentations should not exceed four pages. Submissions will be evaluated based on their relevance, technical merit, and alignment with the DoD's objectives and mission. The BAA will remain open for one year, and amendments containing new CFAs will be posted with a 45-day deadline for submissions. Virtual Industry Day is scheduled for June 28, 2024, providing an opportunity for potential applicants to gain further clarification and insight. For general inquiries, contact the Washington Headquarters Services (WHS) RPAB through the provided email address. Technical questions should be directed to the designated Technical Point of Contact. Ensure that all submissions and inquiries reference the BOTA number HQ003424BOTA1.