Muon Space has announced its latest venture to harness climate-monitoring satellites for the U.S. Air Force’s cloud characterization needs.
Muon Space, a pioneering startup in the space technology sector, has announced its latest venture to harness climate-monitoring satellites for the U.S. Air Force’s cloud characterization needs. Founded in 2021, the startup is focused on the development of small satellites designed to monitor Earth’s climate and ecosystems.
Under the recently awarded Small Business Innovation Research Phase 1 contract from the U.S. Air Force, Muon Space is set to conduct a feasibility study. The study assesses the potential benefits of adapting Muon Space’s multispectral electro-optical infrared (EO/IR) instrument to enhance the Department of Defense’s cloud characterization observation capability.
Cloud characterization is a critical aspect for the military, especially in launching munitions and planning satellite imagery collections for intelligence purposes. With the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) satellites aging and facing the risk of failure, the Department of Defense is actively exploring alternatives to ensure the continuity of accurate cloud cover data.
Muon Space’s President, Greg Smirin, emphasized the significance of their EO/IR constellation solution, describing it as a commercial pathway to address existing gaps in cloud observation capabilities. The company’s commitment to advancing satellite technology was underscored by the successful launch of its first satellite last summer.
In addition to the U.S. Air Force contract, the startup has secured noteworthy agreements, demonstrating the company’s growing influence in the space industry. In July, the startup secured a $400,000 Space Force contract to deliver crucial space weather data.
A $2.8 million contract with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center Weather Systems Branch and the Defense Innovation Unit, awarded in 2022, positions Muon Space to provide terrestrial weather products to the Air Force 557th Weather Wing.
Further cementing its presence in the national security space arena, Muon Space was selected by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) in November. The NRO contract involves the provision of multispectral electro-optical and infrared data through Muon Space’s future climate monitoring constellation. The NRO will assess both the data quality and Muon Space’s capabilities to determine its potential to meet future intelligence needs.
As Muon Space continues to make strides in the space technology sector, these developments highlight the company’s pivotal role in advancing satellite capabilities for crucial applications in defense, weather monitoring, and national security.