SBIR-STTR Award

Accurate Time Transfers in Crosslink / Communications Networks
Award last edited on: 6/7/2023

Sponsored Program
SBIR
Awarding Agency
DOD : AF
Total Award Amount
$899,544
Award Phase
2
Solicitation Topic Code
AF182-067
Principal Investigator
Evan Walsh

Company Information

Systems & Technology Research LLC (AKA: STR)

600 West Cummings Park Suite 6500
Woburn, MA 01801
   (339) 999-2242
   info@stresearch.com
   www.stresearch.com
Location: Multiple
Congr. District: 05
County: Middlesex

Phase I

Contract Number: FA9453-19-P-0529
Start Date: 11/16/2018    Completed: 11/16/2019
Phase I year
2019
Phase I Amount
$149,860
Systems & Technology Research (STR) proposes the development of a novel satellite constellation time transfer and synchronization architecture leveraging STRs extensive experience in the development of modeling and simulation environments, advanced algorithms, and experimental testbeds for precision metrology and RF applications. In this program we will focus on delivering sub-100 ps timing accuracy via satellite crosslinks for potential use as a GPS-surrogate in contested environments. The Phase I effort will focus on developing network algorithms for synchronizing an entire constellation of satellites informed by algorithms for individual time transfers, a comprehensive end-to-end modeling and simulation environment for individual time transfers, and a systems-level analysis of prospective constellations. Throughout the effort, STR will work to establish an advanced satellite constellation synchronization development plan for a Phase II demonstration using the fundamental approach developed during Phase I and the inclusion of feedback from the U.S. Government team to hone the research towards a direction that is amenable for a successful transition to the Air Force.time synchronization,time transfer,Satellite Constellation,Satellite Crosslink,Phase Errors,position,Navigation and Timing (PNT)

Phase II

Contract Number: FA9453-21-C-0543
Start Date: 5/3/2021    Completed: 8/3/2023
Phase II year
2021
Phase II Amount
$749,684
Systems & Technology Research (STR) is proposing to advance the STR Loop-Inclusive Graphical Hierarchical Time Transfer (STR-LIGHTT, pronounced "starlight") algorithm for synchronization of the GPS space vehicle (SV) constellation via crosslinks. STR-LIGHTT simulations show order of magnitude improvement in SV clock performance down to 100-ps synchronization. STR will extend its algorithm for GPS synchronization via proliferated LEO (P-LEO) constellations by incorporating ad hoc network techniques into STR-LIGHTT. Both the original and ad hoc versions of STR-LIGHTT will be demonstrated in software-defined radios (SDRs) and tested for fault tolerance and algorithmic vulnerabilities to ensure successful transition to operational systems. A P-LEO payload for GPS synchronization will be designed to further aid STR-LIGHTT deployment. Successful implementation of STR-LIGHTT will enable higher precision timing in the GPS and other constellations for better positioning performance in the case of GPS and more advanced distributed sensing applications in general.