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Pacific Defense, a leader in Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) technology, has announced a significant development in cislunar space situational awareness (SSA). The company has been awarded a $9.4 million Phase II contract by the Space Control Technology Branch of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to complete the development of a low size, weight, and power (SWaP) sensor. This sensor, by Staff Writers
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 07, 2023
Pacific Defense, a leader in Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) technology, has announced a significant development in cislunar space situational awareness (SSA). The company has been awarded a $9.4 million Phase II contract by the Space Control Technology Branch of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to complete the development of a low size, weight, and power (SWaP) sensor. This sensor, designed in accordance with MOSA principles, is intended to address the growing challenges of SSA in the cislunar domain.
The innovative system, dubbed "Moonraker," builds upon Pacific Defense's expertise in MOSA system development. It leverages advanced 3U software-defined radio (SDR) and graphics processing unit (GPU) technology. Additionally, it utilizes an open software framework that incorporates both company and industry-provided SSA applications. The Phase II effort is set to advance the initial work begun in Phase I, with the ultimate goal of producing flight-ready sensors.
Bryan Terlecky, Vice President of Space Systems at Pacific Defense, highlighted the novel approach of the "Moonraker" project. "Moonraker represents a fresh perspective in space payload design, and Pacific Defense is committed to demonstrating how an open architecture approach can expedite development - from concept to a flight deliverable sensor in just 24 months," he stated.
The collaboration with AFRL's Space Control team is a significant aspect of this project. Brian Engberg, Chief of the Space Control Technology Branch, expressed enthusiasm about working with Pacific Defense. "This partnership with Pacific Defense is a key step in researching, developing, and demonstrating cost-effective sensing capabilities for the cislunar space," Engberg said. He emphasized that this capability is crucial for maintaining a safe and transparent operational environment in the cislunar area.
The Phase II contract, which spans a 39-month period, will culminate in the delivery of a qualified sensor for on-orbit demonstration. This development marks a crucial step in enhancing the United States Air Force's capabilities in space situational awareness, particularly in the rapidly evolving cislunar region. Related Links
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