Development of Directed Energy Systems for Space-Based Applications
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
SpaceWERX, in partnership with Space Systems Command and the Air Force Research Laboratory, is seeking direct-to-Phase II SBIR solutions for dual-use directed energy systems for space-based applications. The work focuses on developing compact, space-qualified high-energy laser or particle accelerator architectures that can support missions such as power transfer, target identification, and debris remediation while improving power output, beam quality, and control. The effort emphasizes solving space-qualification, power and thermal management, beam control, pointing accuracy, radiation resiliency, and low size, weight, and power constraints, with ground-based demonstration and advancement toward TRL 6 prototypes for eventual on-orbit demonstration. The opportunity is open for submission through the DoD SBIR topic portal, with applications due July 22, 2026.