Launch Pads at Sea for Space Superiority

Technical Abstract: AFRL has a need for multiple suborbital sounding rocket launches from a sea-based platform to conduct research tied to A2AD technology development. DAF currently has no way to conduct this research in the desired locations. To meet this need, The Spaceport Company (TSC) will use SBIR funds to conduct customer discovery for our sea-based launch platform (see picture to the left).   Overview: In Phase 1 we will propose a customer memorandum with AFRL, as well as with the Missile Defense Agency. We will also attempt to find other DOD stakeholders (e.g. USSF) who may be interested in this product.    Technical Merit: The underlying solution is proven and operational. TSC launched four sounding rockets in one day from a leased and modified vessel in the Gulf of Mexico in May 2023 with our subcontractor Evolution Space.   Team: We are launch site and offshore experts with experience spanning SpaceX, Boeing, NASA, FAA, and Shell Oil. Evolution Space are sounding rocket experts, having reached the Karman Line in 2023. Commercialization: Over $250M in commercial interest, won a $2.9M DIU contract in May 2023, awarded funding from the State of Virginia, and the FY24 NDAA instructs DOD to begin planning for sea-based launches.