SBIR-STTR Award

(F2-13509)Multipoint ThinSats for Autonomy, Resilience, and Performance (MARP) to RAPSAT
Award last edited on: 11/7/2021

Sponsored Program
SBIR
Awarding Agency
DOD : AF
Total Award Amount
$793,326
Award Phase
2
Solicitation Topic Code
J201-CSO1
Principal Investigator
Henry Voss

Company Information

NearSpace Launch

8702 East 825 South
Upland, IN 46989
   (765) 998-8942
   nsl@nearspacelaunch.com
   www.nearspacelaunch.com
Location: Single
Congr. District: 05
County: Grant

Phase I

Contract Number: FA8649-20-P-0789
Start Date: 3/9/2020    Completed: 6/9/2020
Phase I year
2020
Phase I Amount
$43,326
NearSpace Launch (NSL)’s proposal for Multipoint ThinSats for Autonomy, Resilience, and Performance (MARP) is a key enabler for the Hybrid Architecture’s goal of distribution and diversification. In this proposal we will demonstrate a highly reliable, multipoint platform with near- ubiquitous communications and terrestrial cloud-based delivery to mission owners. This proposal builds upon the successful deployment of the first 60 ThinSat constellation launched into LEO orbit in 2019. Numerous ThinSats (1/7U) can stack together and do not require their own dispenser by leveraging standard 3U to 27U CubeSat launchers and embrace mass-manufacturing processes like robotic assembly. Under “High Performance Small Satellite, AREA 22 Space Technologies for ThinSats and CubeSats” this proposal addresses the following in our Objectives 1-3 (AF Connect, DOD Requirements, & Resources): NSL implements a powerful redundant Health and Safety data link for 24/7 Anywhere and Anytime coverage for rapid decision making. NSL partnership for a miniature ADACS and partnership with Benchmark and other providers for novel Propulsion units that use Green Fuel Propulsion. NSL proposes use of novel Zero-Volt batteries that provide the ability to store for indefinite periods of time, and remove the storage constraint for SmallSat secondary launches. NSL has developed a novel articulating foldout (TRL=9), a low-cost deployable foldout structure Under “Ubiquitous Satellite Command, Control, and Operations, AREA 22 Space Technologies” this proposal addresses in our Objectives the following three AF focus areas: NSL has developed many subsystems for the Hybrid Architecture in constellations and commercial 24/7 communication systems for space assets and rapid decision making Microservice for decision engine to detect, characterize, and assess threats Innovation methods of Rapid Integration of many data node sources into a classified cloud environment ThinSat platforms have many advantages over CubeSats form factors for multipoint constellations including affordability, quick assembly ease, performance, aerodynamics, and stealth performance. Using a TRL=9 interlock system no CubeSat launcher modifications are required. Each ThinSat is scaled up to military grade mission assurance and radiation harness. Integrated ThinSats and CubeSats are a disruptive technology and with options for high growth in DOD and Commercial markets. The MARP team has been on the leading edge of innovation: Dr. Voss, as PI and Mr. Jeff Dailey as Chief Engineer have over 70 years of space systems experience (Lockheed, NASA, AF, DOD). NSL has over 400 flight DOD, NASA, and Commercial subsystems in space with ~100% success with high Quality Assurance, Rapid delivery, Resilience, and Performance, NSL has built 60 ThinSats and 10 full CubeSats that have all met full mission success. NSL is currently under contract for 7 Commercial and DOD satellites for launch next year.

Phase II

Contract Number: FA8649-21-P-0800
Start Date: 3/12/2021    Completed: 6/13/2022
Phase II year
2021
Phase II Amount
$750,000
DOD and Commercial Objectives: This SBIR Phase 2 proposal addresses the strategic DOD Topic J201-CS01 problem of rapidly converting terrestrial innovations and new ideas into advanced space tested parts, subsystems, and constellation components for cuttin