Bid guide
How to bid on Space Domain Awareness (SDA) Solutions for the Dept of the Air Force
What the Space Force is buying and why it matters
The United States Space Force (USSF) is looking for innovative commercial solutions to improve its Space Domain Awareness (SDA) capabilities. This means they want better ways to detect, characterize, and predict activities in space, enhance the accuracy and timeliness of SDA data, and support new SDA missions through advanced technologies.
This is a significant opportunity for small businesses to contribute directly to national security and space operations. The Space Force is using a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) under DFARS 212.70, which is a flexible way to acquire innovative technologies, products, and services.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This opportunity was published on March 18, 2026. The final deadline for submissions is January 23, 2030, at 2:00 PM ET. This long window indicates a multi-phase process where specific Areas of Interest (AOIs) will be released over time.
The submission process involves three potential phases: Phase I requires a White Paper and PowerPoint Briefing. Selected offerors may be invited to a Phase II Pitch Session, and then to Phase III for a Full Proposal. The government reserves the right to move directly from Phase I to Phase III. All participants in Phase I will receive formal notification regarding the status of their submission.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is specifically set aside for small businesses. It is ideal for firms with innovative commercial solutions related to software engineering, data analytics, and other advanced approaches that can enhance Space Domain Awareness.
Companies specializing in space tracking, satellite monitoring, data fusion, predictive analytics, and related technologies would find this a strong fit. Solutions should focus on detecting, characterizing, and predicting space activities, improving data accuracy, and supporting new SDA missions.
How to respond
To respond, you must monitor SAM.gov for specific Area of Interest (AOI) postings under this CSO. Each AOI will provide detailed submission instructions, evaluation criteria, and deadlines.
Submissions must comply with the formats and requirements outlined in the CSO and the applicable AOI. For general inquiries, you can contact the SAIO CSO Contracting Officer at [email protected]. Use the subject line: "SDA CSO – General Question(s)".
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Focus on clearly articulating the innovative aspects of your commercial solution and how it directly addresses the Space Force's SDA mission challenges. Since Phase I requires an unclassified White Paper and PowerPoint Briefing, ensure your initial submission is concise, compelling, and easy to understand.
Pay close attention to the specific requirements of each Area of Interest (AOI) as they are released. Ensure your proposed solution aligns with the technical focus areas and evaluation criteria. Emphasize how your solution enhances data accuracy, supports emerging missions, or improves the detection and prediction of space activities. Also, be prepared to demonstrate compliance with NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC 2.0 requirements for cybersecurity.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Dept of the Air Force; the original posting controls.