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Star Catcher Industries Secures AFWERX SBIR Phase 1 Grant

In a groundbreaking development for space technology, Star Catcher Industries, Inc. has been awarded the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 1 contract from AFWERX. This award marks a pivotal step towards advancing space-to-space power beaming, specifically aimed at enhancing the capabilities of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) spacecraft. As global dynamics evolve, the Department of the Air Force recognizes the imperative need to bolster satellite power capacities, particularly in light of potential threats from rival nations such as China and Russia.

The Vision for Space-to-Space Power Beaming

The SBIR Phase 1 initiative seeks to validate and improve upon Star Catcher's innovative space-to-space power beaming technologies. The company's ultimate goal is to lay the foundation for the Star Catcher Network, poised to become the first-ever space energy grid. This network will significantly alleviate the power limitations currently confronted by satellites and other space assets.

Once operational, the Star Catcher Network will facilitate the transmission of considerable amounts of energy to spacecraft situated in LEO and beyond. Notably, this grid will enable existing solar arrays on client spacecraft to harness energy at concentrations that surpass even solar output, potentially providing five to ten times more power without necessitating any retrofitting. Such enhancements will empower satellites to accommodate power-demanding payloads, boost operational duration, conduct real-time data processing, and undertake more intricate missions—all while mitigating the complications and costs associated with larger satellite structures and solar systems.

A Transformational Leap

Andrew Rush, the CEO of Star Catcher, expressed his enthusiasm about this contract, stating, “This contract marks a significant step toward realizing our vision of a space energy grid. Space-to-space power beaming is key infrastructure that will fundamentally change how spacecraft access power, enhancing operational capabilities and resilience for both defense and commercial applications.”

The partnership between the Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX aims to streamline the SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process. By accelerating the transition from proposal to award, they are enhancing opportunities for small businesses and minimizing bureaucratic hurdles in contract execution.

The Future of Space Operations

In addition to its promising work on power beaming, Star Catcher is dedicated to revolutionizing space operations with its unique focus on harnessing energy from space. By concentrating solar energy, they aim to provide unprecedented power levels to satellites, enhancing their performance and capabilities in a rapidly evolving space landscape.

Founded in 2024 by a team of seasoned space entrepreneurs, including Andrew Rush and Michael Snyder, alongside venture capitalist Bryan Lyandvert, Star Catcher raised an impressive seed round of $12.5 million in July 2024. This funding, co-led by Initialized Capital and B Capital, positions Star Catcher to spearhead innovations that could reshape how energy is used in space.

About the Organizations Involved

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) serves as the primary hub for scientific research and technological development within the Department of the Air Force. With a vast workforce and global reach, AFRL is pivotal in discovering and integrating affordable technologies to enhance air, space, and cyberspace capabilities.

On the other hand, AFWERX, designated as the innovation arm of the Department of the Air Force, emphasizes collaboration with small businesses to tackle pressing challenges. With a robust budget and a wealth of contracts executed since 2019, AFWERX is committed to strengthening the U.S. defense industrial base and facilitating faster technology adoption.

Conclusion

The partnership between Star Catcher Industries and AFWERX heralds a new era in space technology, emphasizing the vital role power plays in enhancing spacecraft capabilities. As the boundaries of space exploration expand, innovations like the proposed Star Catcher Network will undoubtedly redefine how we approach energy utilization in space, ensuring operational efficiency, resilience, and advancement in both military and commercial endeavors.