Award

Aqwest proposes to develop hardware solution that improves resiliency of satellites to directed energy threats. Our solution is a low-weight and cost-effective add-on, which is compatible with existing typical satellite systems, components, and modes of operation. In Phase I, we will define requirements for the technology to survive and operate within intended space, spacecraft, and DE threat environments. We will perform modeling to estimate effectiveness of the technology and conduct DE exposure testing on relevant scale to validate our approach. We will generate plans for execution of Phase II and for technology transition to end users. In Phase II, we will design, analyze, build, and ground test the technology, showing capability to survive and perform in the space, spacecraft, and DE threat environment.  If necessary, space qualification testing may be performed so that Aqwest would be prepared to sell the product to the space market at the end of Phase II. In Phase III (Dual Use Applications), Aqwest will design, build, deliver, and support an experiment to allow the USSF to demonstrate the technology in a combined effects environment.