SpaceWERX Launches Sustained Space Maneuver Challenge to Advance Satellite Mobility

Insider Brief

• SpaceWERX has launched the Sustained Space Maneuver Challenge, an initiative that aims to push the boundaries of satellite mobility and maneuverability, particularly in Low Earth Orbit and Geostationary Orbit.
• The challenge is designed to explore alternative technologies and strategies to improve satellite movement and survivability, addressing growing threats in the space domain.
• The submission period runs from September 18, 2024, to October 16, 2024.

SpaceWERX, the innovation arm of the United States Space Force, has launched the Sustained Space Maneuver (SSM) Challenge. This initiative aims to push the boundaries of satellite mobility and maneuverability, particularly in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Orbit (GEO). The challenge is designed to explore alternative technologies and strategies to improve satellite movement and survivability, addressing growing threats in the space domain.

The SSM Challenge is strategically aligned with the priorities of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), U.S. Space Command (USSPACECOM), and allied nations. In a space environment increasingly defined by competition and potential conflict, satellite mobility has become a critical component of defense strategy. The ability to reposition satellites quickly and efficiently enhances deterrence, optimizes mission execution, and minimizes the risk of loss during potential conflict.

SpaceWERX’s primary goals for this challenge include developing responsive mobility solutions for satellites, integrating autonomous decision-making capabilities, and enabling modular and scalable systems. By enhancing these areas, SpaceWERX seeks to provide the U.S. with a strategic advantage in space, ensuring its assets can outmaneuver and outlast potential threats.

Participants in the SSM Challenge are expected to submit innovative solutions that address several key areas:

Satellite Maneuverability

Improving propulsion systems, autonomous decision-making capabilities, and space situational awareness tools to ensure that satellites can move freely and adapt to threats in real-time.

Space Domain Awareness (SDA)

Developing tools and systems that provide accurate and timely data on the location and status of space objects, enabling better collision avoidance and proximity operations.

On-Orbit Servicing

Creating systems that support in-space repairs and refueling, reducing the need to replace satellites and allowing them to stay operational longer.

Refueling and Payload Modularity

Designing systems to facilitate the transfer of fuel and payload components, allowing for more flexible and adaptable missions in space.

The challenge highlights five main focus areas for participants:

1. Maneuver: Enhancing satellite propulsion and mobility through advanced technologies.
2. Space Domain Awareness: Improving real-time monitoring and decision-making capabilities for space operations.
3. Rendezvous and Zero-Proximity Operations: Developing autonomous navigation and control systems for close-proximity missions.
4. On-Orbit Servicing: Enabling autonomous repairs, refueling, and assembly in space.
5. Payload Modularity: Innovating modular systems that allow for easier upgrades and reconfigurations.

The SSM Challenge is open to individuals and teams from industry, academia, and government. SpaceWERX encourages collaboration across sectors to develop cutting-edge solutions. Participants stand to gain recognition, potential funding, and the opportunity to collaborate with USSPACECOM and DoD customers.

The submission period runs from September 18, 2024, to October 16, 2024. Entries must be submitted via the SBIR/STTR website, see Topic #SF243-D018.