This is an open, two-step Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) for research to design, develop, demonstrate, and test technologies for space domain awareness. White papers are accepted until July 12, 2029, at 5 PM EST. Formal proposals will be accepted by invitation only. The total estimated funding is approximately $99 million. Offerors should monitor the SAM website for updates. The announcement includes eligibility requirements, including foreign participation restrictions and organizational conflicts of interest. Specific format requirements for white papers and proposals are detailed in the announcement. The government reserves the right to select all, part, or none of the proposals received, subject to funding availability.
White papers are suggested to be received by 5 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the following dates to maximize the possibility of award: FY25 by November 30, 2024; FY26 by November 30, 2025; FY27 by November 30, 2026; FY28 by November 30, 2027; FY29 by November 30, 2028. White papers will be accepted until 5 PM EST on July 12, 2029, but it is less likely that funding will be available in each respective fiscal year after the dates cited.
The following criteria, which are listed in equal order of importance, will be used to determine whether white papers and proposals submitted are consistent with the intent of this ARA and of interest to the government: overall scientific and technical merit, related experience, openness, maturity, and assurance of solution, and reasonableness and realism of proposed costs and fees.
All qualified offerors who meet the requirements of this ARA may apply. Foreign participation is closed, including both foreign ownership and foreign nationals as employees or subcontractors, with exceptions for fundamental research.
The total funding for this ARA is approximately $99 million.
