LeoLabs has received an AFWERX contract worth $1.2 million to develop a radar system that can track objects in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). This award is a small business innovation research (SBIR) Phase II contract, and it will help the company enhance security in space by providing better tracking capabilities.
LeoLabs operates a global network of ground radars that track objects in LEO. The new radar technology being developed with this contract will aid in countering security threats in space by providing advanced object tracking capabilities. LeoLabs CEO Tony Frazier emphasizes the importance of supporting the U.S. Department of Defense’s efforts to improve tracking of non-cooperative launches, smaller orbital debris, and objects in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO). The goal is to enhance the resiliency of space architectures and strengthen deterrence to ensure U.S. national security.
The prototype S-band 2-D direct radiating array (DRA) that LeoLabs will design, develop, build, and test as part of this contract is capable of providing advanced object tracking in LEO. This new radar technology will be integrated with LeoLabs’ existing global network of ground radars to provide even more accurate and reliable tracking capabilities for objects in LEO.
LeoLabs is committed to utilizing innovative technology to address the challenges posed by the increasing number of adversarial satellites in space. The company’s Costa Rica Radar Facility opened in 2021, further expanding its global network of ground radars and enhancing its ability to track objects in LEO.
In conclusion, LeoLabs has received an AFWERX contract worth $1.2 million to develop a radar system that can track objects in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). This new radar technology will aid in countering security threats in space by providing advanced object tracking capabilities and be integrated with LeoLabs’ existing global network of ground radars. LeoLabs is committed to utilizing innovative technology to address the challenges posed by the increasing number of adversarial satellites in space.
