Space Based Environmental Monitoring (SBEM)
ID: SF242-D029Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Space Based Environmental Monitoring (SBEM)

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Space Based Environmental Monitoring (SBEM)" as part of their SBIR 24.2 Annual solicitation. The objective is to develop cutting-edge technologies that enable the Space Systems Command to establish a comprehensive, real-time, and globally responsive environmental monitoring system from space. The technology will involve the development of state-of-the-art satellites equipped with advanced sensors and instrumentation to collect high-resolution data on various ecological parameters worldwide. The project includes technology innovation, system integration, data utilization, collaborative partnerships, and operational efficiency. The solicitation is currently open, with a close date of June 12, 2024. Phase I awards will not be made for this topic, as it is a Direct-to-Phase-II (D2P2) topic. Phase II aims to advance the technology by integrating advanced sensor technologies and data fusion algorithms to create an interconnected satellite constellation. Phase III focuses on transitioning the technology into commercial markets while addressing specific government and military needs. The technology has applications in defense, disaster management, agriculture, and environmental sectors.

    Files
    No associated files provided.
    Similar Opportunities
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) Advanced Capability Development Open Topic
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) Advanced Capability Development Open Topic. The Space Development Agency (SDA) is looking for novel architecture concepts, systems, technologies, and capabilities that enable leap-ahead improvements for future tranches of currently planned PWSA capability layers or address other emerging warfighter needs. The research areas include trusted AI and autonomy, advanced computing and software, integrated sensing and cyber, hypersonics, microelectronics, integrated network systems-of-systems, space technology, renewable energy generation and storage, advanced infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing. The solicitation is open for Phase II proposals only, and proposers must demonstrate the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of their projects. The research will be conducted in multiple themes, including integrating commercial sensing to the transport layer, developing optical inter-satellite link (OISL) technology and industrial base, cybersecurity, networking, in-space processing, increasing power for spacecraft bus, generic BMC3 hardware and middleware solutions, seamless multi-level security (MLS), and high-performance clocks for space. The Phase III applications of this research include providing low earth orbit communication systems and space-based processing for the distribution of overhead sensor data. The proposal submission deadline is March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation notice on grants.gov or the SDA website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) Advanced Capability Development Open Topic
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) Advanced Capability Development Open Topic. The Space Development Agency (SDA) is looking for novel architecture concepts, systems, technologies, and capabilities that enable leap-ahead improvements for future tranches of currently planned PWSA capability layers or address emerging warfighter needs. The research areas include trusted AI and autonomy, advanced computing and software, integrated sensing and cyber, hypersonics, microelectronics, integrated network systems-of-systems, space technology, renewable energy generation and storage, advanced infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing. The solicitation is open for Phase II proposals only, and proposers must demonstrate the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of their projects. The research will support the development of the PWSA, a resilient military sensing and data transport capability in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The solicitation provides specific themes and focus areas for potential deliverables, such as integrating commercial sensing to the transport layer, developing optical inter-satellite link (OISL) technology, advancing cyber and networking capabilities, and increasing power for spacecraft bus. The Phase III applications of the research include improving low Earth orbit communication systems and space-based processing for effective distribution of sensor data. The proposal submission deadline is March 31, 2025. For more information and to access the proposal template, visit the DOD SBIR website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Autonomous Optical Sensors
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Autonomous Optical Sensors" as part of their SBIR program. The objective of this project is to develop a portable optical sensor that can capture high-quality real-time imagery data during missile tests. The sensor will be positioned near a missile launcher or target to analyze the terminal phase of the flight in remote locations where proper test infrastructure is unavailable. The Autonomous Optical Sensor (AOS) system will incorporate high-speed imaging cameras with advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities. The sensor will operate autonomously for an extended period with either a battery or renewable energy source and wirelessly receive setup and calibration data from a centralized command center. In Phase I, the awardee will research and define an integrated AOS configuration that includes various types of optical sensors and develop an AI framework to manage the system. Phase II will involve creating a prototype of the AOS and refining the integrated system design for optimal performance. The potential impacts of this technology include collecting real-time imagery for air traffic management at airports or surveillance of sensitive areas. It can help track flights, assist in airspace coordination, and alert operators of potential safety or security concerns. The project duration is not specified, but the solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information and to submit a proposal, visit the DOD SBIR website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Autonomous Optical Sensors
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Autonomous Optical Sensors" as part of their SBIR program. The objective of this project is to develop a portable optical sensor that can capture high-quality real-time imagery data during missile tests. The sensor will be positioned near a missile launcher or target to analyze the terminal phase of the flight. The sensor will incorporate high-speed imaging cameras with advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, allowing it to calibrate and manage itself and operate autonomously for an extended period. The sensor will wirelessly receive setup and calibration data from a centralized command center. In Phase I, the awardee will research and define an integrated configuration of the Autonomous Optical Sensor (AOS) that includes various types of optical sensors and an AI framework. Phase II will involve creating a prototype of the AOS based on the Phase I analysis, refining the integrated system design, and conducting functional testing in an operational context. The potential applications of this technology include collecting real-time imagery for air traffic management at airports or surveillance of sensitive areas. It can help track flights, assist in airspace coordination, and alert operators of potential safety or security concerns. The project is currently open for proposals, with a closing date of March 31, 2025. More information can be found on the DOD SBIR website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Atmospheric Water Extraction Plus (AWE+)
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Atmospheric Water Extraction Plus (AWE+)" as part of its SBIR program. The objective of this solicitation is to develop novel atmospheric water extraction technology with potential for energy use below 100Wh electric per liter of water generated across a wide range of environments. The technology should be integrated into a proof-of-concept prototype producing potable water with a clear path to full-size implementation. The DOD has a critical need to reduce water resupply requirements for mobile and self-sufficient operations. The development of AWE+ technology will have important tactical implications, reducing casualties and costs in forward operating environments. The goal is to provide potable water for a range of military needs by developing low-power, distributable systems that can provide water anywhere, anytime, and without the need for any external liquid water source. DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, is specifically seeking teams with innovative means of releasing water from sorbents which is cyclically stable and has very low energy requirements. The technology should be able to produce water with not more than 100Wh electricity per liter of water produced, and not more than 100Wh thermal energy per liter of water produced. Proposals should outline a plan for reaching these energy metrics and provide an estimate for the range of environmental conditions at which the devices could operate. The project will be conducted in two phases. Phase I is a six-month effort focusing on proof-of-concept material and release mechanism development. Phase II is a 24-month effort with a base period of nine months, followed by two option periods. The performers will be expected to demonstrate functionality of their water capture and release mechanisms in a laboratory environment, producing at least 100mL of potable liquid water over a six-hour period with minimal loss in performance. The ultimate goal of this effort is to demonstrate AWE capable of meeting potable water needs for expeditionary scenarios with extremely high efficiency. Phase III will focus on transition within the DoD/military and further commercialization of the technology. Potential applications include satisfying military expeditionary water needs, reducing logistical footprint and vulnerability of supply lines, and developing next-generation dehumidification systems for residential and commercial HVAC. Keywords: Atmospheric water extraction, atmospheric water capture, atmospheric water harvesting, sorbent materials, advanced manufacturing. For more information and to submit proposals, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation notice on grants.gov or the DOD SBIR/STTR Opportunities website. The open date for proposals is October 3, 2023, and the close date is March 31, 2025.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Lightweight Longwave Bolometer Sensor Components
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Lightweight Longwave Bolometer Sensor Components" as part of the SBIR program. The objective of this topic is to develop components that enable low size, weight, and power (SWAP) thermal bolometer-type longwave thermal sensor payloads. These components should have equal or better performance than current commercial offerings while driving down SWAP. The components of interest include lens, focal plane, and readout and processing embedded hardware. The components should be ready for integration into a camera module by the end of Phase II. Thermal longwave infrared (LWIR) capabilities are crucial for many Army applications, especially for small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). However, the size, power, and weight constraints often limit the performance of these sensors. This topic aims to develop components that reduce the weight of thermal payloads while increasing their capabilities and keeping unit costs low. The project will have a Phase I and Phase II, with Phase I proposals accepting a cost of up to $250,000 for a 6-month period of performance. During Phase I, firms should design a proposed component with stakeholder input, analyze the SWAP-C impact of the component, and discuss how it will support the objective sensor payload. Phase II will involve completing the component design, fabricating, testing, and characterizing the component for integration into a lightweight sensor payload. Firms will also refine the design, define relevant interfaces, and lay out a high-level plan for integration. The potential applications of this research include smartphone camera augmentation, UAV camera augmentation, home security systems, and climate tech development. The project references academic research on bolometer manufacturing methods and the efficacy of leveraging colloidal quantum dots (QDs) for IR light sensing. Military contractors have also contributed to the research in the LWIR sensor and bolometer manufacturing spaces. For more information and to submit proposals, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation notice on grants.gov or the DOD SBIR/STTR Opportunities page. The open date for proposals is October 3, 2023, and the close date is March 31, 2025.
    DOD STTR 24.D Annual - Window-glass Telescope for Highly-compensated Ubiquitous Sensing (WITH US)
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I program. The specific topic of the solicitation is the "Window-glass Telescope for Highly-compensated Ubiquitous Sensing (WITH US)". The objective of this program is to design, develop, and study a large collecting area telescope system that can detect faint objects in space using window(s) already installed on commercial office buildings. The goal is to utilize the massive quantity of in-situ commercial building windows as a tool for sensing faint objects or as a relay optic for sending light to a remote object. The solicitation seeks proposals to design a machine-learning or other system to characterize the surface shape of window glass, design a computational imaging system for hardware or numerical corrections, and design the physical realization of the telescope system. The project duration for Phase I is 12 months, and successful proposals should include modeling and simulation to achieve the goals. Phase II will further develop modeling methods and validate capabilities through hardware design, construction, and testing of prototype subsystems. The Phase II base effort should include a scalability study and a small-scale laboratory demonstration. The Phase II option effort should include a task dedicated to determining the feasibility of integrating components into a fieldable system capable of performing astronomical measurements. The ultimate goal is to commercialize the concept and apply it to various imaging applications, including ground-based Space Domain Awareness (SDA) and satellite surveillance.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Miniaturization of Hyperspectral Sensors for UAS Applications
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Miniaturization of Hyperspectral Sensors for UAS Applications" as part of their SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The objective of this topic is to develop a compact, passive, day/night capable hyperspectral sensor that meets Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) requirements for integration into ongoing modernization programs. The sensor should result in cost savings and reductions in weight, power, and volume without sacrificing capability. The sensor payload will be developed for use on smaller Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs). Historically, airborne hyperspectral imaging (HSI) systems have been limited to larger aircraft due to heavy and complex optical components, high power consumption, and large ancillary hardware. This limits accessibility and availability. The solicitation is accepting Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals with a cost of up to $2,000,000 for a 24-month period of performance. Proposers interested in submitting a DP2 proposal must provide documentation to substantiate the scientific and technical merit and feasibility equivalent to a Phase I project. During Phase II, firms should complete the sensor design, fabricate and test the component, integrate it into a gimbal for final integration onto a Class II or smaller UAS platform, refine the design as necessary, and validate sensor payload performance in a government-run laboratory. They should also define relevant interfaces for integration and lay out a high-level plan for how the component could be integrated into a UAS platform. In Phase III, the sensor/gimbal payload should be integrated into a prototype system for field collection. The sensor should be deployed on at least one test event to observe performance and generate quantitative/qualitative sensor performance data. The topic references relevant research papers on hyperspectral imaging systems. The keywords for this topic are Hyperspectral, VNIR, SWIR, and LWIR. For more information and to submit proposals, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation page on grants.gov: link.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - xTech Search 8 SBIR Finalist Open Topic Competition
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the xTech Search 8 SBIR Finalist Open Topic Competition. The objective of this solicitation is to find novel and disruptive concepts and technology solutions with dual-use capabilities that can address the Army's current needs and apply to current Army concepts. The technology areas of interest include Electronics, Human Systems, and Sensors. The Army is particularly interested in technologies related to Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Advanced Materials, Advanced Manufacturing, Autonomy, Cyber, Human Performance, Immersive, Network Technologies, Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT), Power, Software Modernization, and Sensors. The Phase I of the project requires a feasibility study and concept plans, while Phase II involves producing prototype solutions for evaluation by soldiers. Phase III focuses on the maturation of the technology and commercialization. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation agency website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Ensuring Sensor Data Security and Integrity
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Ensuring Sensor Data Security and Integrity" as part of its SBIR program. The objective of this topic is to develop a platform that secures sensor data at the individual record level and supports experimentation to advance technology for DoD and Army Data Strategy VAULTIS goals. The platform should be cost-effective, flexible, and implemented through an Application Programming Interface (API) with no data size limitation. It should also ensure the integrity of sensor data throughout its lifecycle and incorporate attributes such as encryption, immutable data storage, audit and logging, and tamper-proof chain of custody. The Army aims to become more data-centric and capable of conducting operations in contested environments. The project will be conducted in two phases, with Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals accepted for a cost of up to $2,000,000 for an 18-month period of performance. The contractor will be responsible for integrating, testing, demonstrating, and delivering a lightweight and scalable prototype data provenance solution. The solution should secure all sensor data at the individual record level and include database, replication, data audit, and encryption in a single integrated solution. It should also incorporate knowledge graphs, analytic visualization tools, and support data analysis. The use of blockchain technology is highlighted as a potential dual-use application for protecting sensor data fidelity in various sectors such as healthcare, critical infrastructure, smart homes, and autonomous vehicles. The project references the Army's data plan and strategic goals for 2040. The deadline for proposal submission is March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link provided: DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual.