The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for a Planar Hyperspectral Imager as part of their SBIR 24.1 BAA solicitation. The objective of this research topic is to develop a low-cost, low-SWaP-C (size, weight, power, and cost) ISR payload for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance applications in space. The payload should provide simultaneous multiband imaging over the range of 500-12000 nanometers and be compatible with integration into an ESPA class satellite. The system must have a common optical path for visible through infrared wavelengths to enable wavelength diversity during data fusion. The anticipated use case of this payload is to identify features on the ground such as man-made structures, geographical features, and agricultural fields.
In Phase I, system analysis and breadboard validation will be conducted to determine the system requirements and produce a primary optical element. Phase II involves constructing and testing a prototype payload on the ground, with the use of COTS hardware encouraged. The payload must be designed to survive launch into low Earth orbit (LEO) and the harsh space environment for at least three years. Phase III aims to identify a satellite vehicle to launch the payload and collect images from LEO. The imager may also offer ISR potential from different platforms and contribute to future space-based projects.
This solicitation is restricted under ITAR regulations, and offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals. The project duration is not specified, but the open date is January 3, 2024, and the close date is February 21, 2024. For more information and to submit proposals, visit the DOD SBIR 24.1 BAA page on grants.gov.