The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for a neuromorphic camera for space domain awareness. This technology offers the potential to collect continuous data, allowing for instantaneous determination of an object's angle and rate, and reducing initial orbit determination time. The camera will be designed to detect and track satellites in geosynchronous orbit, taking into consideration the low signal-to-noise and low photon environments of space. The camera should be capable of bench-top and on-sky testing with a one meter class telescope system.
In Phase I, a design will be created for the camera, including estimated performance information. Phase II will involve creating a prototype based on the Phase I design, which will be delivered to the government for testing and evaluation. In Phase III, the Department of the Air Force may consider ordering several prototypes for research and operational space domain awareness sensors. The results of the prototype evaluation will be shared with the customer base, and the decision to purchase additional units will be left to the various customer program managers.
This solicitation is open until June 12, 2024. For more information and to submit a proposal, visit the DOD SBIR 24.2 Annual solicitation page on grants.gov: link.