Low Earth Orbit Space Domain Awareness Optical Fence
ID: SF243-D002Type: Phase II
Overview

Topic

Low Earth Orbit Space Domain Awareness Optical Fence

Agency

Agency: DODBranch: USAF

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: Phase II

Topic Link

https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/

Additional Information

https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking proposals for the development of a low-cost optical space domain awareness sensor designed to track low Earth orbit (LEO) objects. The objective is to create a sensor that passively detects LEO objects, processes data at the edge, and autonomously sends relevant observations to end users, addressing the limitations of existing radar and optical tracking systems. This initiative is crucial for enhancing space situational awareness and ensuring the safety of space operations, with a focus on affordability, minimal maintenance, and ease of replacement. The solicitation is currently closed, with proposals due by October 23, 2024, and further details can be found at the official DOD SBIR website.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    1729929014133.pdf
    Similar Opportunities
    Low Cost Proximity Sensor for C-UAS Munition -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking proposals for the development of a low-cost proximity sensor designed for counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) munitions, particularly compatible with the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS). The objective is to create a sensor that effectively detects and engages both slow and fast UAS targets, as well as cruise missiles, utilizing various sensing modes including RF, passive IR, and semi-active laser IR solutions. This initiative is critical for enhancing battlefield capabilities against evolving aerial threats. The solicitation is set to open on May 28, 2025, with proposals due by June 25, 2025, and interested parties can find more information at the official DOD SBIR website.
    Lidar Tomography for Remote Sensing -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focused on developing a Lidar Tomography system for remote sensing applications. The objective is to create a sensor design capable of producing high-resolution imagery of remote objects by utilizing multiple range measurements from various angles, with a target effective range resolution of less than 7.5 cm. This technology aims to enhance remote sensing capabilities by overcoming traditional optical limitations, making it crucial for applications in airborne or spaceborne platforms. The solicitation is set to open on May 28, 2025, with a closing date for applications on June 25, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Low Cost Proximity Sensor for C-UAS Munition -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking proposals for the development of a low-cost proximity sensor aimed at enhancing counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) munitions. The objective is to create a sensor that effectively targets both slow and fast UAS threats, including cruise missiles, with a focus on compatibility with the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS). This initiative is critical for improving battlefield capabilities and ensuring effective defense against aerial threats. The solicitation is currently open, with proposals due by June 25, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link: https://www.sbir.gov/topics/12034.
    Space-Based Environmental Monitoring (SBEM) in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) -
    DOD
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative technologies for Space-Based Environmental Monitoring (SBEM) in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The objective is to develop low-cost, attritable platforms capable of hosting various sensor technologies to enhance space weather specification and forecasting capabilities, which are critical for U.S. national security and commercial space operations. This initiative aims to address the current gaps in standardized solutions for capturing global ionospheric and thermospheric data, with a focus on continuous, real-time data collection from the unique operational environment of VLEO. Interested applicants should prepare proposals demonstrating a clear product-market fit and a feasible integration plan with Department of Air Force operations, with Phase II applications due by June 25, 2025. For more information, visit the official solicitation page at DOD SBIR/STTR.
    Lightweight Optical Turret for Extended Capability HEL (LOTECH) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Air Force, is seeking proposals for the development of a Lightweight Optical Turret for Extended Capability High Energy Laser (HEL) applications, designated as AF254-D0816. The objective is to create a fully functional, lightweight beam director with a 10 centimeter class aperture that can effectively propagate a high energy laser from a transsonic airborne platform while compensating for aero-effects to maintain low jitter and effective targeting. This technology is critical for tactical airborne applications and is subject to strict export controls under ITAR and EAR regulations. Interested applicants must demonstrate prior feasibility through relevant experience and are encouraged to submit proposals by June 25, 2025, with further details available at the provided source link.
    Lightweight Optical Turret for Extended Capability HEL (LOTECH) -
    DOD
    The United States Air Force (USAF) is seeking proposals for the development of a Lightweight Optical Turret for Extended Capability High Energy Laser (HEL) applications, specifically designed for integration onto small airborne platforms. The objective is to create a fully functional, lightweight beam director with a 10-centimeter class aperture that can effectively propagate a high energy laser from a transsonic aircraft while compensating for aero-effects to maintain low jitter and precise targeting on non-cooperative targets. This initiative is critical for enhancing tactical airborne laser capabilities, with the project expected to transition into the Airborne Laser Weapon System Program scheduled to commence in FY27. Interested applicants must submit their proposals by June 25, 2025, with further details available on the official solicitation website.
    Magnetically Clean Remote Sensing Satellite for VLEO mapping mission -
    DOD
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking proposals for the development of a magnetically clean remote sensing satellite designed for a Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) mapping mission, aimed at enhancing magnetic navigation capabilities. The primary objective is to create a satellite system that can operate at altitudes between 100-300 km to collect high-resolution magnetic field data, which will improve geomagnetic models and provide robust navigation solutions in environments where traditional Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are unavailable. This initiative is critical for addressing vulnerabilities in current navigation systems and supports the Department of Air Force’s operational goals for resilient space capabilities. Proposals are due by June 25, 2025, and interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the official SBIR website at https://www.sbir.gov/topics/12068.
    High Power Airborne Optical Relay -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense (DoD), specifically the United States Air Force (USAF), is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for the development of a High Power Airborne Optical Relay system. The objective is to create a reliable and efficient system that enhances the performance of ground-based lasers, enabling them to transmit high-power laser beams over longer distances and improve engagement geometries for various applications, including defense and communication. This opportunity is particularly significant as it addresses challenges associated with deploying airborne laser weapons systems and aims to advance optical relay technology to facilitate effective engagement of low-altitude airborne targets. Interested parties must submit their proposals by June 25, 2025, with the project being open for applications starting May 7, 2025. For more details, applicants can refer to the solicitation document available at the provided link.
    Novel Sensors for Robotic Non-destructive Inspection in Confined Space -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking innovative solutions for novel sensors designed for robotic non-destructive inspection in confined spaces. The objective is to develop nondestructive evaluation (NDE) sensors that can be integrated with highly compliant and miniature robotic systems, enabling inspections without disassembly using techniques such as ultrasonic, electromagnetic, thermal, and visible light imaging. This opportunity is critical for advancing inspection technologies that can operate in challenging environments, enhancing the capabilities of robotic platforms. The solicitation is currently in the pre-release phase, with the open date set for May 28, 2025, and applications due by June 25, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official DOD SBIR website.
    Autonomous Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Targeting (ISR-T) -
    DOD
    The United States Air Force (USAF) is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for the development of Autonomous Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) focused on Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (ISR-T) capabilities. The objective is to create a low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) UAS that can autonomously detect and track ground targets in contested environments without relying on GPS or command and control signals, while also overcoming challenges posed by camouflage and evasive maneuvers. This technology is expected to have significant military applications, as well as potential commercial uses in law enforcement and other sectors requiring advanced surveillance capabilities. The solicitation is set to open on May 28, 2025, with proposals due by June 25, 2025. For more information, interested parties can visit the official SBIR website at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.