What's Happening?
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and Starris have entered into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to advance space domain awareness technology. This partnership focuses on developing a UV-infrared space-domain awareness system using LLNL's monolithic telescope technology. The collaboration aims to enhance the capabilities of small satellite constellations for scientific and defense purposes. The initiative will be showcased at the Small Satellite conference in Salt Lake City, highlighting the potential of UV wavelength bands in monitoring space phenomena.
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Why It's Important?
The CRADA between LLNL and Starris represents a significant step in the commercialization of space technologies, particularly in the area of space domain awareness. This collaboration could lead to advancements in detecting and tracking artificial objects in space, which is crucial for national security and scientific research. The partnership also exemplifies the role of public-private collaborations in accelerating technological innovation and deployment. As space becomes an increasingly contested domain, such technologies are vital for maintaining strategic advantages and ensuring the safety of space assets.
What's Next?
The partnership is set to expand with the upcoming U.S. Space Force's Victus Haze mission in 2026, which will test the rapid deployment capabilities of satellites in response to orbital threats. This mission will serve as a critical testbed for the technologies developed under the CRADA, potentially leading to further collaborations and innovations in space domain awareness. The success of this initiative could pave the way for more extensive use of monolithic telescope technology in various space missions, enhancing the U.S.'s ability to monitor and respond to space-based threats.
