WASHINGTON — Today, Slingshot Aerospace announced that it is creating a digital replica space environment for the U.S. Space Force under a new $25 Million contract. This contract is aimed at rapidly delivering training and wargaming capabilities.
The Digital Space Twin simulates space conditions and maps on-orbit objects, as well as space weather, in real-time. Slingshot has been working on the tool for two years. Slingshot stated in a Thursday press release that it will adapt the contract for Space Force missions to improve their ability to respond to current and future threats. The company will deliver the commercial version of the product before it finishes the government product.
The digital twin could be used to analyze wargaming data, as well as mission planning and design. As the Space Force builds its cloud-based infrastructure, digital products such as this are a priority. Digital Engineering EcosystemA platform for industry to work together with the service, share models and conduct program reviews.
The 39-month contract will see the delivery of the company’s Slingshot Laboratory space simulation platform. This can be used by Space Force to teach advanced aerodynamics. Slingshot will develop four pilot programmes to support Basic Military Training and the National Security Space Institute, as well as the 319th Combat Training Squadron, 533rd Training Squadron, and the 319th Combat Training Squadron.
Melanie Stricklan (CEO), stated that Space Force’s combined delivery of the digital twin product and the laboratory product makes it an exceptional product suite.
Space Systems Command also funded the contract. SpaceWERXThrough its Strategic Financing (STRATFI Program), it helps to bridge the gap between technology fielding and development. SpaceWERX awards contracts each year through STRATFI for technologies that can address critical mission needs.
Courtney Albon is C4ISRNET’s space and emerging technology reporter. She was previously a reporter for C4ISRNET’s space and emerging technology section.