Capella Space Secures $14.9 Million SAR Services Contract from U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory

Capella Space has secured a $14.9 million contract from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to use there expertise in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology in defense applications.

Advancing Earth Observation Capabilities

Capella Space is renowned for its innovative use of SAR technology, which enables high-resolution imaging regardless of weather conditions or time of day. Unlike traditional optical satellites, SAR systems possess the unique capability to penetrate cloud cover and darkness, providing consistent and reliable Earth observation data.

Contract Details and Objectives

The contract with AFRL, set to run until December 2026, aims to integrate Capella’s SAR data into AFRL’s Global Unification Environment.

The experimental cloud-based platform is designed to test automated satellite tasking and imaging collection strategies using commercial systems. The integration of SAR data will enhance the platform's ability to conduct comprehensive Earth observation and analysis.

“We’re interested in working with commercial satellite companies across multiple phenomenologies to understand their capabilities and military utility,” - Alexander Duchane, Electronics Engineer at AFRL’s Space Vehicles Directorate

Supporting Small Business Innovation

Located at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, AFRL highlighted that the agreement with Capella is a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 2 Strategic Funding Increase award.

Such contracts are typically aimed at supporting small businesses in their research and development efforts with potential for commercialization, fostering innovation and technological advancements within the defense sector.

Capella Space’s Growing Defense Sector Presence

Founded in 2016, Capella Space has been steadily expanding its footprint in the defense sector.

The company’s cutting-edge SAR technology has garnered significant interest from various defense and intelligence agencies, underscoring the value and potential of commercial satellite imaging in enhancing national security and strategic operations.