Notice

Competition document: space to innovate

Updated 17 May 2019

1. Introduction

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) Space Programme is seeking proposals that can aid UK Defence and Security to develop future space technologies. We are looking for innovative solutions that can address the following challenge areas;

1. Technologies for defending future UK space assets
2. Novel sensing and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) enablers
3. Characterisation of objects in space and their intent
4. Overcoming the technical issues of ‘Space to Sea Level’ optical communications

At least £2.25 million is expected to fund multiple proposals over 2 phases. Phase 1 proposals must be for a maximum of 12 months duration and be up to a maximum value of £200k each.

Additional funding may be available for further phases to increase maturity beyond that achieved through phase 1. Any further phases will be open to applications from all suppliers and not just those that submitted phase 1 successful bids.

Phase 1 closes for applications on 26 June 2019 at midday.

2. Competition Scope

2.1 Background

The Dstl Space Programme is launching this DASA competition to attract novel technological solutions from a broad range of suppliers in order to alleviate some of the UK’s Defence and Security space challenges.

The space environment is becoming increasingly congested and contested. Satellites are becoming smaller and are being launched more frequently. This creates many challenges as well as opportunities for Defence and Security.

2.2 Scope

The objective of the Dstl Space Programme, in launching this DASA call, is to fund research into space technologies that may not otherwise be developed in the civil space industry. This will address a set of specific problems in the space domain, as outlined in the competition challenges.

The aim of this competition is to develop science and technology (S&T) solutions that address the 4 challenges detailed below. Funded projects are expected to achieve at least Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 (proof-of-concept) by the end of phase 1 but can potentially reach up to TRL 6 (demonstration in a relevant environment) in later phases. Solutions currently at or above TRL 6 in a civilian environment may be eligible for funding where the technology requires development to operate in a Defence and Security environment (potentially lowering the TRL).

We welcome proposals from across the full range of suppliers including academia, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and large companies, from both the UK and overseas. Successful applicants are expected to come from both the existing space sector and suppliers who have not traditionally worked in this domain. Previous experience of defence and security work is not a requirement.

Where possible and appropriate, it is anticipated that successful contract awards will be publically announced at the UK Space Conference in September 2019.

3. Competition Challenges

This competition has 4 challenge areas. Your proposal should be aimed at one specific challenge.

3.1 Challenge 1 - Defending future UK space assets

The hazardous space environment, combined with the threat of hostile action in space, creates an ever increasing risk of failure or disruption to future defence and security satellites.

The military space environment includes the usual natural hazards of the space environment but also hostile actions that, as described in the National Space Security Policy (NSSP), include jamming, spoofing, cyber-attack and direct attack. Proposals that clearly describe the defence and security benefit to counter hostile action will be more welcome than those which just appear to approach the general hardening of satellites for the natural environments and hazards of space.

DASA is interested in innovative methods to increase the resilience of UK Space assets, including:

• the hardening of existing, commercial electronics and satellite sub systems for military space environments and applications
• novel techniques to mitigate against the military space environment
• satellite defence measures to protect satellites (analogous to air defence solutions)
• accurate and precise conjunction warning

3.2 Challenge 2 - Novel sensing and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) enablers

This challenge seeks to develop technologies and demonstrations of novel sensing modes for the space domain for military and intelligence applications; both space-to-ground and space-to-space. Novel modes in this context could include:

• non-traditional space sensing bands (e.g. ultraviolet)
• gravimetric imaging of the space environment
• sparse aperture imaging technologies and processing
• use of novel materials (e.g. meta-materials or graphene) for space sensing applications

Associated with sensing from space, ISR satellites have different requirements to civil or commercial ones. We are looking to develop enabling technologies for future sensing satellites. These could include:

• large aperture (optical and Radio Frequency) deployment and development
• precision timing technologies
• technologies for increasing satellite agility and pointing accuracy for military requirements

We are not interested in general Earth observation technologies and systems, or those which support explicitly civil or commercial functions (e.g. forestry monitoring or land usage).

3.3 Challenge 3 - Characterisation of objects in space and their intent

Understanding the mission, capability, health status and intent of objects placed in orbit allows the UK to prepare for the future threat posed by potential adversaries. DASA is interested in novel techniques for characterising space objects, including the sensing of objects, signal processing and understanding long-term behaviours and warnings.

This includes:

• detecting changes of state (e.g. translational manoeuvres, transmissions, attitude changes, form factors and spawned objects)
• predicting future changes of state through patterns of behaviour
• identifying unknown objects (i.e. objects observed that do not have an associated entry within existing catalogues
• inferring information regarding payloads located on specific satellites of interest including Earth observation payloads not declared in advance of launch
• observing the interaction and cooperation between satellites in formation flight; particularly in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to support Earth observation missions

DASA is looking for novel approaches to address these Space Situational Awareness (SSA) challenges that could be developed into low-cost solutions to enhance relevant defence functions namely:

• satellite overflight warning of Earth observation missions (featuring electro-optical, synthetic aperture radar, electronic intelligence or other technologies) primarily in LEO
• determining the behaviour of the satellites through their lifetime
• asset protection for high value satellites operating in Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO)
• determination of the composition and status of space objects (i.e. ‘active’ or ‘inactive’) and their on board capabilities (e.g. for sensing local environment, manoeuvre capability etc.)

3.4 Challenge 4 - Overcoming the technical issues of ‘Space to Sea Level’ optical communications

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is researching the feasibility and utility of tactical Free Space Optical Communications (FSOC) links between a satellite in LEO and deployed forces in theatre.

FSOC provides many opportunities and advantages over radio frequency communications, but comes with its own unique challenges. Laser communications from space-to-ground (and ground-to-space) is complicated by the passage of the laser beam through a turbulent atmosphere and the fine pointing requirements. Furthermore, while civil or militarily strategic ground stations can be built in numerous advantageous locations (e.g. at high elevations where atmospheric turbulence is minimal and cloud cover has a low probability), tactical ground stations will not have this freedom.

In military tactical environments (e.g. a single ground station located in a desert, a high humidity location, a large built up area, or at sea) the atmospheric conditions may be less favourable towards a laser communications link and the ground station may have to be rapidly relocatable.

This challenge is subtly different to the previous 3 as FSOC technologies are relatively mature. Space-to-space links are operational with the European Data Relay System (EDRS) and space-to-ground links have been technically demonstrated. This challenge covers the “militarisation” of these technologies, though most of the issues are broader and about improving resilience.

The key issues associated with this challenge are the requirements to:

• rapidly deploy, operate and relocate a single optical ground station at any time of day - the foremost challenge being the alignment of the optics
• operate in strong atmospheric turbulence
• operate in more challenging weather conditions such as partial cloud or intermittent rain, high atmospheric aerosol particle concentrations (e.g. sand, pollution or sea spray) and temperature extremes
• overcome the lack of geographical site diversity due to the tactical nature of the operations
• overcome platform instability (e.g. on a ship)

To address this challenge, strategies to overcome these issues could include:

• novel optical configurations
• innovative approaches to optical turbulence mitigation
• novel detector technologies
• new coding and modulation approaches
• new methods of ground station operations
• novel alignment techniques
• methods to reduce size, weight and power of optical ground terminals
• methods to ruggedize optical ground terminals

For this competition this challenge specifically excludes:

• inter-satellite links
• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)
• security and encryption of communications

3.5 Clarification of what we want

We want novel ideas to benefit users working in UK Defence and Security. Your proposal should include evidence of:

• theoretical development, methodological advancement or proof of concept research which can demonstrate potential for translation to practical demonstration in later phases
• an innovative or a creative approach
• a clear demonstration of how the proposed work applies to any Defence and Security context

3.6 Clarification of what we don’t want

For this competition we are not interested in proposals which, in general:

• constitute consultancy or literature reviews which just summarise the existing literature without any view of future development (which therefore cannot be extended into phase 2)
• do not offer significant benefit to defence and security capabilities
• are an identical resubmission of a previous bid to DASA or MOD without modification
• offer demonstrations of off-the-shelf products requiring no experimental development (unless applied in a novel way to the challenge)
• offer no real long-term prospect of integration into UK defence and security capabilities
• offer no real prospect of out-competing existing technological solutions
• do not fall clearly into one (or more) challenge as outlined above

Or, in terms of space-specific aspects, we are not interested in:

• technologies or systems relating to space launch
• space technologies where the commercial market is already strongly invested (e.g. general satellite communications)
• proposals relating to human spaceflight and exploration
• proposals which could be considered an irresponsible use of space (e.g. generating unnecessary debris, or violating international treaties)
• areas which constitute research into the specific areas of:
  • inter-satellite links
  • Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)
  • security and encryption of optical communications

4. Exploitation

The outputs of this research will feed initially back into the Dstl Space Programme which will mature successful DASA bids through mission-specific projects (e.g. ISR or SSA). The programme will then further seek to use the technologies in demonstrator missions, both in-space and elsewhere for the benefit of future defence and security space procurement activities.

The following outlines challenge-specific exploitation routes in the defence and wider space enterprise, however you should note it is not envisaged that many of the proposals funded will be integrated into these until after phase 2, and we will explore all potential options for exploitation and not just those listed below.

Challenge 1 - Defending future UK space assets

A key, medium term exploitation route is the Skynet 6 and follow-on military satellite communications (MILSATCOM) programme. Defence is investing billions of pounds in the next generation of MILSATCOM and needs to assure its survivability in response to the future threat spectrum. Technologies developed here could be exploited in support of defending future satellites in Geosynchronous or other orbital regimes.

Furthermore, defence interest in sovereign ISR systems is increasing and, whilst likely not in the same mass and cost category as future MILSATCOM, will require consideration of assuring their availability in the light of future threats.

Challenge 2 - Novel sensing and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance enablers

Demonstrations with significant impact are likely to be brought into the Space ISR research project within the Dstl Space Programme. This would include experimental testing. Dstl is currently managing multiple options for future space-based demonstrations into which successful technologies could be integrated as part of an in-orbit demonstration. This could see the technology flown in space perhaps in partnership with the UK’s international allies.

The role that sovereign space ISR could play as part of the future force mix is gaining interest in many parts of defence – especially within the Royal Air Force (RAF), as evidenced by the recent success of Carbonite- 2. Novel approaches to space ISR, including enabling technologies for military applications, will be readily exploitable in such future satellites.

Joint Forces Command (JFC) has a key role across ISR for defence and is considering novel sensing modes for space and how they fit in with the wider force mix. Technologies developed here could feed into the long term novel space ISR capabilities required by defence.

Challenge 3 - Characterisation of objects in space and their intent

Demonstrations with significant impact are likely to be brought into the Dstl SSA project in the first instance. This project is currently developing prototype capabilities for use in the emerging UK Space Operations Centre (SpOC) at RAF High Wycombe. This will be a hub for future UK military space operations.

The SpOC offers a range of services to the wider defence enterprise including satellite overflight warning, re-entry predictions and conjunction warning. Technologies or processing capabilities which can be aligned to the requirements of the SpOC have a ready exploitation route here. This will be managed by the Dstl Space Programme.

Challenge 4 - Overcoming the technical issues of ‘Space to Sea Level’ optical communications

There is a significant drive from the Secretary of State’s Modernising Defence Programme (MDP) in the form of innovative ‘spearhead’ projects. This funding will see a UK FSOC demonstrator satellite flown by 2022 with an accompanying UK optical communications ground station. Technology developed under this challenge could form the basis of future experiments and trials with these assets, with a view to equipping future MOD space assets with optical terminals. There may also be opportunities to conduct further FSOC demonstrator missions in collaboration with international allies, who could provide launch or hosted payload availability.

Finally, the outputs and technology maturation activities in all challenges will also be shared through the strategic relationship between Dstl and the UK Space Agency (UKSA). This opens another potential exploitation route via the National Space Technology Programme. The technology may also be exploited by other S&T programmes within Dstl where applicable.

Previous calls for Affordable Space have also garnered interest and investment from the European Space Agency (ESA). DASA is happy to facilitate the civil exploitation route where appropriate, for example from its regional presence at the Harwell space cluster.

As well as the exploitation routes detailed above it is important for you to think about how you would exploit your technology, please provide details of exploitation routes and considerations in your proposal. Some points you may wish to cover include:

• what is your proposed route to market? Who do you need to work with to fully deliver your capability?
• have you already engaged with potential government customers? If so, who and what was the outcome?
• have you explored any exploitation routes outside of government? If so, who and what was the outcome?
• what are the main risks to the exploitation of your technology? How have you mitigated these risks?

5. How to apply

Proposals for funding to meet these challenges must be submitted by 26 June 2019 at midday via the DASA submission service for which you will be required to register.

At least £2.25 million is expected to fund multiple proposals over 2 phases. Proposals in phase 1 will be capped at £200k of DASA funding each. If successful at phase 1, contracts will be awarded for up to 12 months duration.

Additional funding for further phases to increase maturity beyond phase 1 may be available. Any further phases will be open to applications from all suppliers and not just those that submitted phase 1 successful bids.

Further guidance on submitting a proposal is available on the DASA website.

5.1 What your proposal must include

The proposal must focus on the phase 1 requirements but must also include a brief (un-costed) outline of the next stages of work required for exploitation.

When submitting a proposal, you must complete all sections of the online form, including an appropriate level of technical information to allow assessment of the bid and a completed finances section. It is also helpful to include a list of other current or recent government funding you may have received in this area if appropriate, making it clear how this proposal differs from this work.

A project plan with clear milestones and deliverables must also be provided. Deliverables must be well defined and designed to provide evidence of progress against the project plan and the end-point for this phase. You should plan for attendance at a kick-off meeting and regular review meetings with the appointed Technical Partner. The final deliverable must be a final report.

A resourcing plan must also be provided that identifies, where possible, the nationalities of those proposed Research Workers that you intend working on this phase. In the event of proposals being recommended for funding, the DASA reserves the right to undertake due diligence checks including the clearance of proposed Research Workers. Please note that this process will take as long as necessary and could take up to 6 weeks in some cases for non-UK nationals.

You must identify any ethical / legal / regulatory factors within your proposal and how the associated risks will be managed, including break points in the project if approvals are not received. MODREC approvals can take up to 3 months therefore you should plan your work programme accordingly. Further details are available in the DASA guidance. If you are unsure if your proposal will need to apply for MODREC approval, then please contact DASA for further guidance.

In addition, requirements for access to Government Furnished Assets (GFA) should be included in your proposal. DASA cannot guarantee that GFA will be available, and you should include alternative plans if appropriate to cover for this eventuality.

Your proposal must demonstrate how you will complete all research and development (R&D) activities/services and provide all deliverables within the competition timescales (for this phase the timescales are 12 months maximum duration). Proposals with any deliverables (including final report) outside the competition timeline will be rejected as non-compliant.

Completed proposals must comply with the financial rules set for this competition. The upper-limit for proposals within this competition is £200k. Proposals will be rejected if the financial cost exceeds this capped level.

Proposals must include costed attendance at a supplier day which may be held towards the end of phase 1. This will be an opportunity to meet stakeholders and other suppliers to present current progress and discuss potential future work.

Failure to provide any of the above listed will automatically render your proposal non-compliant.

5.2 Public facing information

When submitting your proposal, you will be required to include a proposal title and a short abstract. If your proposal is funded, the title and abstract you provide will be used by DASA, the Dstl Space Programme, and other government departments as appropriate, to describe the project and its intended outcomes and benefits. It will be used for inclusion at DASA and Dstl events in relation to this competition and included in documentation such as brochures for the event.

5.3 How your proposal will be assessed

All proposals will be checked for compliance with the competition document and may be rejected before full assessment if they do not comply. Only those proposals which demonstrate their compliance against the competition scope and DASA criteria will be taken forward to full assessment. Failure to achieve full compliance against stage 1 will render your proposal non-compliant and will not be considered any further:

Mandatory Criteria

The proposal outlines how it meets the scope of the competition	Within scope (Pass) / Out of scope (Fail)
The proposal fully explains in all three sections of the DASA submission service how it meets the DASA criteria	Pass / Fail
The proposal clearly details a financial plan, a project plan and a resourcing plan to complete the work proposed in phase 1	Pass / Fail
The proposal identifies the need (or not) for MODREC approval	Pass / Fail
The proposal identifies any GFA required for phase 1	Pass / Fail
Maximum value of proposal is £200k	Pass / Fail
The proposal demonstrates how all R&D activities/services (including delivery of the final report) will be completed within 12 months from award of contract (or less)	Pass / Fail
Unqualified acceptance of the terms and conditions of contract	Pass / Fail

Proposals will then be assessed against the standard DASA assessment criteria by subject matter experts from the MOD (including Dstl), other government departments and front-line military commands and appropriate allies. You will not have the opportunity to comment on assessors comments.

DASA reserves the right to disclose on a confidential basis any information it receives from bidders during the procurement process (including information identified by the bidder as Commercially Sensitive Information in accordance with the provisions of this competition) to any third party engaged by DASA for the specific purpose of evaluating or assisting DASA in the evaluation of the bidder’s proposal. In providing such information the bidder consents to such disclosure. Appropriate confidentiality agreements will be put in place.

Further guidance on how your proposal is assessed is available on the DASA website. After assessment, proposals will be discussed internally at a Decision Conference where, based on the assessments, budget and wider strategic considerations, a decision will be made on the proposals that are recommended for funding.

Proposals that are unsuccessful will receive brief feedback after the Decision Conference.

5.4 Things you should know about DASA contracts

Please read the DASA terms and conditions which contain important information for suppliers. For this competition we are trialing the new Standard Contract Innovation template contract and NOT the DASA Short Form Contract (SFC). Links to this contract here: Terms and Schedules

Funded projects will be allocated a Technical Partner as a technical point of contact from the Dstl Space Programme. In addition, the Space Programme team and DASA will work with you to support delivery and exploitation.

We will use deliverables from DASA contracts in accordance with our rights detailed in the contract terms and conditions.

For this competition, at least £2.25 million is currently available to fund multiple proposals. There may be occasions where additional funding from other funding lines may subsequently become available to allow us to revisit those proposals deemed suitable for funding but where limitations on funding at the time prevented DASA from awarding a subsequent Contract. In such situations, DASA reserve the right to keep such proposals in reserve. In the event that additional funding subsequently becomes available, DASA may ask whether you would still be prepared to undertake the work outlined in your proposal under the same terms. Your official DASA feedback will indicate if your proposal was fundable or not.

6. Phase 1 dates

Dial-in	21 May 2019 AM & 23 May 2019 AM
Pre bookable 1-1 telecom sessions	21 May 2019 PM & 23 May 2019 PM
Competition closes	26 June 2019
Contracting	Aim to start in September with a maximum of 12 months duration

6.1 Supporting events

Tuesday 21 and Thursday 23 May 2019 AM – Dial-in sessions providing further detail on the problem space and a chance to ask questions in an open forum. If you would like to participate, please register on the Eventbrite page.

Tuesday 21 and Thursday 23 May 2019 PM – A series of 20 minute one-to-one teleconference sessions, giving you the opportunity to ask specific questions. If you would like to participate, please register on the Eventbrite page.

7. Help

Competition queries including on process, application, technical, commercial and intellectual property aspects should be sent to space_to_innovate@dstl.gov.uk, quoting the competition title.

While all reasonable efforts will be made to answer queries, DASA reserves the right to impose management controls if volumes of queries restrict fair access of information to all potential suppliers.