The Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA) invests in high-risk, high pay off research programs to tackle some of the most difficult challenges of the agencies and disciplines in the Intelligence Community (IC).

Smallsats, which for the purpose of this request for information (RFI) are defined as spacecraft with a mass less than 500 kilograms, have demonstrated numerous low-cost applications with relatively short delivery times, from concept to launch (i.e., two to three years). Further reductions of the cost, risk, complexity, mass, and/or time to launch are required to mature the state of the art for small satellite capabilities, phenomenologies, or methodologies.

This IARPA RFI seeks capability statements relating to small satellites, subsystem technologies, and data
collection and processing capabilities that are assessed to be at Technology Readiness Levels 1-6.
Responses to this RFI should address one or more of the following objectives:

• Identify candidate technologies applicable to small satellites with game-changing and/or crosscutting potential and validate these technologies via spaceflight or lab environment that mimics space
  • Technologies must demonstrate an innovative capability not previously demonstrated with smallsats or in space
• Accelerate measurable improvement or create new small satellites capabilities related to autonomy, advanced communications, remote observation, space-based sensor phenomenologies, automated data processing or object recognition, or other applications associated with collecting, processing, and distributing information from small satellites based platforms; or
• Identify key technology and capability investments that incubate and enhance the market for small satellites.

Technology domains of interests include (but are not limited to): innovative imaging including temporal and spectral solutions; synthetic aperture radar solutions; AI/ML/on-board processing for payload and communications applications; RF and optical payload technologies, data fusion, communications; complete spacecraft platforms; constellations, communications; command and data handling; automated collection orchestration, ground data systems and mission operations; thermal control; power; propulsion, guidance, navigation and control; and autonomous operations.

For complete information, please download the RFI PDF at this direct link...