Rogue Space Systems Corporation's recent selection by SpaceWERX for a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II award, valued at over $1 million, marks a pivotal advancement in Space Domain Awareness (SDA) technology. The project, centered on the development of Autonomous Multi-spectral Resident-Space-Object Identification and Characterization (SAMRIC) technology, aims to address the escalating challenges posed by the burgeoning number of satellites in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). With projections suggesting an increase from the current 5,000 operational satellites to potentially hundreds of thousands by 2030, the imperative for precise space object tracking and characterization has never been more critical.
The SAMRIC technology leverages in-orbit sensors to enhance the accuracy of tracking and the characterization of space objects. This innovative approach facilitates the classification and identification of objects' characteristics and capabilities, offering vital insights into their nature, trajectory, and potential functions. Michael Pica, Rogue's Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, underscored the significance of this development, highlighting its potential to autonomously detect and identify Resident Space Objects (RSOs) in situ, thereby expanding awareness of the local space environment and enhancing safety and efficiency in In-Space Servicing and Manufacturing (ISAM) activities.
Jon Beam, Rogue's Chief Executive Officer, elaborated on the broader implications of SAMRIC, emphasizing its role in enabling real-time utilization of multiple sensor types in orbit to complement both local and global SDA databases. This capability positions Rogue as a proactive contributor to the space ecosystem, fostering the safety and sustainability of space operations. The SAMRIC project is not only a cornerstone of Rogue's technology roadmap but also a critical enabler of their vision for a fleet of Orbots™, equipped with advanced in-situ orbital determination and client characterization capabilities.
The award to Rogue Space Systems underscores the efficacy of the SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, streamlined by the Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX, in accelerating innovation. As the space domain becomes increasingly congested and competitive, technologies like SAMRIC are indispensable for ensuring the safety and sustainability of space operations. The development of advanced SDA capabilities promises to benefit not only commercial space endeavors but also bolster national security and international collaboration in space. The SBIR Phase II award represents a substantial investment in the future of space safety and operational efficiency, with the space industry and government agencies keenly observing the progress and potential impacts of SAMRIC on space management and operations.
