The United States Space Force's Space Systems Command has issued a Sources Sought notice seeking responses from firms regarding support equipment, spares, services, and installation for commercially off-the-shelf (COTS) mobile off-grid robotic telescope observatories. This initiative is part of a Title 10 Section 333 Building Partner Capacity effort, aiming to enhance space capabilities and partnerships with other nations through the support of optical Space Domain Awareness (SDA). The procurement will cover both CONUS and OCONUS operations, particularly in regions like USSOUTHCOM and USAFRICOM. Interested parties must respond by 25 March 2025 and adhere to the outlined formatting and content requirements. The document encourages submissions from small businesses and emphasizes the importance of market research for developing an effective acquisition. Additionally, the notice includes detailed expectations concerning capabilities statements, integration of input into the acquisition strategy, and potential planning for ID/IQ contract vehicles. Proprietary information management and the involvement of non-government advisors are also addressed, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of submission processes. Overall, this notice represents a proactive approach in fostering international collaboration for space awareness and technological advancement.
The document outlines a Statement of Work (SOW) for the Space Systems Command (SSC) regarding the design, procurement, installation, and maintenance of mobile, off-grid, robotic telescope observatories as part of the Significant Security Cooperation Initiative (SSCI). The observatories will utilize Commercially Off-The-Shelf (COTS) technology, optimized for autonomous operations and grounded energy efficiency, with capabilities for day and night observations of satellites. Three main tasks are specified: building COTS-based observatories, enhancing design for larger apertures and wider fields of view (FOV), and acquiring large aperture systems tailored for remote and robotic operations. The deliverables include completed observatories, lists of recommended spare parts, and necessary training materials. Locations for work are primarily in South America and Africa. Importantly, the project forecasts required compliance with government protocols while remaining unclassified, and is structured for remote support by contractors. This initiative reflects the U.S. government's strategy to enhance space domain awareness through technologically advanced and flexible telescope systems, minimizing infrastructure delays and fostering international collaboration in military contexts.