The PWSA Sweepstakes: A Look at the Latest Winners in the Space Force’s Satellite Constellation Program
The Space Development Agency (SDA), a unit of the U.S. Space Force, has been aggressively ordering and launching satellites as part of its Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) program. The goal of PWSA is to create an interconnected constellation of satellites that provide greater redundancy and connectivity for the military. With each “Tranche” or generation, the capabilities of the constellation are expanded. The SDA has already awarded contracts worth nearly $10 billion to seven different companies to build over 400 satellites.
Current PWSA Winners: Who’s Building the Next Generation of Satellites for the Space Force
The current winners of the PWSA contracts are three major defense contractors – Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and L3Harris. These companies have extensive experience in building satellites for military use. They will be joined by York Space, a relatively new entrant into the space industry, which has been awarded a $1.3 billion contract to build satellites for the PWSA program. Rocket Lab and Sierra Space have also recently been added to the mix, with Rocket Lab touting its award as marking a new era as a leading satellite prime. The contracts are not all equal, as each company bid their own prices based on the requirements of each Tranche.
Major Funding Boost for Space Investment in 2023: What does it mean for the industry?
According to Space Capital’s Q4 report, space investment bounced back in 2023 with $12.5 billion raised, an increase of over $3 billion from the previous year. While it is still below the record high of 2021, this funding boost is a positive sign for the space industry. The increase in investment shows that there is continued interest and confidence in the growth potential of the sector. This funding will support the development of new technologies and the expansion of existing companies, ultimately driving innovation and progress in space exploration and privatization.
Momentus Running Low on Funds: What’s Next for the Struggling Space Transportation Company?
Momentus, a space transportation company, is facing financial difficulties and has announced that it is running dangerously low on funds. The company has had to abandon its plans for its next mission, citing limited liquidity and cash balance. Momentus warned shareholders that its ability to continue operations in the coming weeks and months will depend on its ability to raise equity capital or engage in a strategic transaction. While the company does not have any definitive commitments at this time, it is actively seeking solutions to secure its future. The situation highlights the challenges that companies in the space industry face, as they often require significant investment to develop and launch new technologies.
NASA Awards Multi-Million Dollar Contract to 12 Companies for ISS Services: What’s Included and What’s Next
NASA has issued a $478 million total award to 12 companies for International Space Station (ISS) services. The seven-year contract includes a two-year extension option to continue supporting the space station until 2032. The companies will provide a range of services, including cargo transportation, research support, and technology development. This contract will ensure the continued operation and maintenance of the ISS, as well as support ongoing scientific research and technological advancements in space. It is a significant step in NASA’s efforts to partner with the private sector to expand capabilities and reduce costs in space exploration.
Analyst comment
Positive news: The PWSA program is progressing with major defense contractors and new entrants awarded contracts. These contracts will expand the capabilities of the satellite constellation, providing greater redundancy and connectivity for the military.
Neutral news: Space investment has bounced back in 2023 with a funding boost of $12.5 billion. While it is below the record high of 2021, the increase in investment signals continued interest and confidence in the space industry’s growth potential.
Negative news: Momentus, a space transportation company, is running low on funds and may struggle to continue operations without raising equity capital or engaging in a strategic transaction. This highlights the challenges faced by companies in the space industry that require significant investment.
Positive news: NASA has awarded a multi-million dollar contract to 12 companies for ISS services, ensuring the continued operation and maintenance of the space station until 2032. This contract supports ongoing scientific research, technological advancements, and NASA’s efforts to partner with the private sector in space exploration.
