Orion Group Holdings Partners with IARPA to Enhance Space Debris Tracking Solutions
- Orion Group Holdings secures a subcontract for Phase 2 of IARPA’s Space Debris Identification and Tracking program.
- The company aims to enhance detection methods for untracked orbital debris smaller than 10 cm using plasma physics expertise.
- Orion’s leadership in space domain awareness supports safer space operations and addresses critical challenges in orbital debris mitigation.
Orion Group Holdings Advances Space Debris Tracking with IARPA Partnership
Orion Space Solutions, a subsidiary of Arcfield, announces a significant step forward in space domain awareness by securing 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. This two-year contract, following the successful Phase 1, aims to enhance methods for detecting and characterizing untracked orbital debris, particularly focusing on objects smaller than 10 cm. The successful completion of Phase 1 provided crucial insights into the interactions between ionospheric phenomena and orbital debris, establishing a foundation for Orion to expand its capabilities in Phase 2.
In this next phase, Orion leverages its expertise in plasma physics and space domain awareness to develop innovative tools that can estimate the properties of previously untracked debris by analyzing the plasma wave environment. President Gregg Burgess emphasizes the company's commitment to addressing the challenges of space traffic coordination and orbital debris mitigation, which are becoming increasingly critical as space activities expand. The SINTRA program specifically targets the detection and tracking of lethal non-trackable debris, a challenge that current systems struggle to address effectively. Orion's ability to link space objects with ionospheric disturbances during Phase 1 uniquely positions it to contribute to solutions that enhance space safety and operational efficiency.
Kevin Kelly, CEO of Arcfield, highlights the importance of this contract in advancing practical solutions for complete space domain awareness, a complex and critical task for government partners involved in space exploration. As one of a select group of teams advancing to Phase 2, Orion's involvement underscores its leadership in the small satellite sector and its dedication to translating scientific knowledge into actionable strategies for mitigating orbital debris risks. The SINTRA program not only reflects Orion’s innovative approach but also its commitment to fostering a safer and more sustainable space environment.
In addition to its achievements in space tracking, Orion Innovation, a leading software engineering company, earns recognition as one of the top twelve providers in The Forrester Wave™ report on connected product engineering services. This acknowledgment showcases Orion’s capabilities in software engineering, rigorous testing, and comprehensive support throughout the product lifecycle. The company’s focus on integrating advanced technologies, including AI and automation, helps clients translate their strategies into reliable, market-ready products.
Orion continues to offer a wide range of solutions, from embedded software to cloud applications, with an emphasis on enhancing customer support through advanced technologies. This commitment to excellence positions Orion well to meet the evolving complexities of connected products and to support organizations looking to innovate and grow in an increasingly digital landscape.
