Utah State University’s Space Dynamics Laboratory wins $1 billion contract from AFRL; precision quantum & photonic sensors included in contract

(SpaceNews) The Air Force Research Laboratory announced Nov. 15 it has awarded its largest-ever contract for space technology development to Utah State University’s Space Dynamics Laboratory.
Space Dynamics, based in North Logan, Utah, received a $1 billion five-year indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for “space and nuclear advanced prototypes, experiments and technology,” according to a news release.
Areas covered under the contract include precision quantum and photonic sensors, space sensors, space cybersecurity, nuclear science and technology for deterrence, advanced satellite navigation and Global Positioning Systems technology, space environmental research, small satellites and radio-frequency sensing.
The sole-source award, announced by the Defense Department on Nov. 10, was not competed. Space Dynamics is one of 14 nonprofit DoD-affiliated University Affiliated Research Centers. UARCs are considered “trusted agents of the government.”
“This contract solidifies the long-term strategic partnership between AFRL and USU SDL,” said Col. Eric Felt, director of the AFRL Space Vehicles Directorate. “The partnership will accelerate critical space science and technology projects, especially when we need to quickly respond to urgent and unexpected needs.