The goal of the Space-BACN program is to create a reconfigurable, multi-protocol intersatellite optical communications terminal that is low size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C), easy to integrate, and will have the ability to connect heterogeneous constellations that operate on different optical intersatellite link (OISL) specifications that otherwise would not be able to communicate. The terminal will operate on platforms in low Earth orbit (LEO). In simpler terms, the goal of this program is to eliminate stovepipes and “connect space,” which will in turn enable the joint all-domain fight.

Space-BACN aims to overcome the lack of full on-orbit interoperability with current and future space communications. Since proliferated space is so new, there is no standardization of communications or OISLs in this domain. New constellations that are in different stages of acquisition are procuring single-waveform cross-link communication systems that meet their mission’s or business objective’s particular needs to interconnect their own constellation. These single-waveform systems are only capable of talking to other systems that support that particular waveform, almost exclusively consist of custom-made components, and have little to no reconfigurability. While most waveforms operate within the same wavelength band, they differ in essentially all implementation details, including specific wavelengths, polarization, clock rate, spatial acquisition sequence, modulation format, framing, and error correction coding. With each constellation acquiring its own single-waveform OISL, the space domain has become severely fragmented with isolated islands of connectivity.

This Program Solicitation (PS) calls specifically for Abstracts to be submitted. Abstracts will be reviewed by the Government; if selected, the proposer will be asked to provide an oral presentation. Oral presentations will be reviewed by the Government; if selected, may result in a Phase 0 award of an Other Transaction.

Bid Protests Not Available