NOAA is seeking a contractor to manage the next generation of space weather satellites, essential for monitoring solar flares and storms that threaten Earth. Existing satellites are becoming outdated, necessitating new solutions for space weather observation, which is critical as infrastructure in orbit is considered. A request for proposals has been issued to gather input for the Space Weather Next program, with submissions due by September 18. The contract could be worth up to $396 million, with work beginning in April 2026 and concluding by 2031.
NOAA is seeking a company to operate the next generation of space weather satellites to monitor threats like solar flares and storms that can disrupt Earth's infrastructure.
Current space weather monitoring satellites and technology are becoming obsolete, prompting the need for a new system to protect critical Earth-bound infrastructure.
Research indicates mild solar storms can interfere with train signaling systems, posing safety risks and highlighting the importance of effective space weather observation.
The contract will facilitate the development of a multi-mission service to support environmental observations and aims for a budget of $396 million, with work starting in 2026.
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