Saber Astronautics, a prominent space technology company, has announced a $1.2 million contract from the US Space Force (USSF) to develop new maneuver planning capabilities. The USSF funded this contract under a US Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase II program, highlighting Saber Astronautics' commitment to advancing space domain awareness and enhancing the safety and efficiency of space operations.

In collaboration with Purdue University's world-class astrodynamics team, Saber Astronautics aims to revolutionize the prediction and management of satellites traveling in the space between Earth and Moon's orbit.  Otherwise known as "CisLunar", the region is gaining attention from both military and commercial organizations. This partnership combines Saber's expertise in space technology with Purdue University's renowned astrodynamics research to address the unique challenges presented by the CisLunar environment.

Saber Astronautics will leverage this partnership to develop innovative methods for predicting and planning satellite maneuvers in this challenging regime. This research will enable the USSF to improve its Space Domain Awareness capabilities by providing more accurate tracking and monitoring of satellites operating in these complex regimes.

One of the most exciting aspects of the project is the direct deployment of these capabilities to space operators through Saber Astronautics' Space Domain Awareness software, Space Cockpit. Currently in use by the USSF and over 2000 operators worldwide, Space Cockpit offers operators a powerful tool for monitoring and managing space assets.

With the addition of these new capabilities, Space Cockpit™ users will gain access to a sandbox environment where they can model threats and plan maneuvers in non-standard orbits. The sandbox will empower operators to anticipate and respond to potential challenges, ensuring safety of flight.

Dr. Jason Held, CEO of Saber Astronautics, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, "We are thrilled to collaborate with the US Space Force on this ground-breaking initiative. This contract represents a significant advancement in our own spaceflight capabilities and provide the tools operators need to succeed in the complex CisLunar environment. Our partnership with Purdue University's astrodynamics team further reinforces our commitment to bringing cutting-edge research and innovation into real-world operational use."

Saber Astronautics is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of space technology and providing solutions that enhance space situational awareness and operational effectiveness. This contract with the USSF underscores the company's expertise and its ability to deliver transformative capabilities for the space community.

Saber Astronautics’ mission is the democratization of space, reducing barriers to space flight, and making space as easy as driving a car. Saber uses next-generation space mission control software developed by an experienced team of space operations, systems control, UX, and robotics experts. Saber brings together the latest techniques in human factors, artificial intelligence, and dynamic 3D data visualization to make it easy for spacecraft operators to monitor, fly, and rapidly diagnose faults in spacecraft systems.

Click here to learn about Saber Astronautics' Space Domain Awareness Tool.