Orion Space Solutions Secures IARPA Contract to Enhance Space Debris Detection and Tracking

Orion Space Solutions Advances Space Debris Detection with IARPA Contract

Orion Space Solutions, a subsidiary of Arcfield, secures a follow-on subcontract from Advanced Space for Phase 2 of the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA) Space Debris Identification and Tracking (SINTRA) program, emphasizing its commitment to enhancing space domain awareness. Announced on January 20, 2026, this two-year contract builds on the foundational success of Phase 1, which provided critical insights into the ionospheric interactions induced by orbital debris. As the space industry grapples with the increasing threat of orbital debris, Orion aims to develop sophisticated methods for tracking and characterizing untracked space objects, particularly those smaller than 10 cm—an area largely neglected by existing tracking systems.

In Phase 2, Orion focuses on analyzing the plasma wave environment to estimate the properties of previously untracked debris, leveraging the findings from its comprehensive statistical analysis conducted during Phase 1. Gregg Burgess, president of Orion, highlights the company’s expertise in plasma physics and space domain awareness as crucial assets in delivering advanced solutions for IARPA. This initiative not only addresses the urgent need for improved space traffic coordination but also contributes to the broader goal of orbital debris mitigation, a pressing challenge in contemporary space exploration. Kevin Kelly, CEO of Arcfield, underscores the significance of this contract, noting that it plays a vital role in advancing technological capabilities and providing practical solutions essential for government partners in achieving comprehensive space domain awareness.

The SINTRA program, originally awarded in July 2023, aims to improve the detection, tracking, and characterization of lethal, non-trackable orbital debris, positioning Orion among a select group of teams advancing to this critical phase. As the company continues to build on its successes, it leads the charge in the small satellite sector, committed to transforming scientific knowledge into actionable solutions for the pressing challenges associated with space debris. By developing innovative methodologies for detection and characterization, Orion Space Solutions not only contributes to enhancing safety in space but also paves the way for sustainable space exploration in the future.

In addition to its contributions to space debris tracking, Orion Innovation has recently been recognized among the top 12 suppliers in The Forrester Wave™: Connected Product Engineering Services report for Q4 2025. This recognition reflects the company’s strong capabilities in software engineering and its commitment to delivering reliable products through rigorous testing and support throughout the product lifecycle. Dmitry Oshmarin, the Technical Director, emphasizes Orion’s dedication to addressing the complexities of connected products and translating client strategies into actionable outcomes, further solidifying its position as a leader in engineering solutions.

Orion continues to offer a comprehensive range of solutions, including embedded software, cloud applications, and integrated AI capabilities, ensuring that organizations can innovate and grow effectively. With advanced client support utilizing technologies like GenAI, Orion demonstrates its commitment to optimizing customer experiences and accelerating time-to-market for connected products.