Space Information Laboratories (SIL) was awarded a DARPA ALASA (Airborne Launch Assist Space Access) enabling technology contract (HR0011-12-C-0053) on March 18, 2012 to develop GPS Metric Tracking, Autonomous Flight Termination System (AFTS) and Space Based Range to reduce range launch cost.

SIL’s VBITS patented technology will enable DARPA ALASA’s goal to significantly reduce launch cost with Vehicle Based GPS Tracking, Autonomous Flight Termination and Space Based Range Systems. SIL’s pioneering technology will lead the way to bring DOD cost affordability on Aerospace vehicles and ranges.

The work will be performed at Space Information Laboratories engineering design and manufacturing facility in Santa Maria, CA near Vandenberg Air Force Base. The DARPA ALASA Phase I contract is worth approximately $2 Million. “We are extremely proud to play a significant role as a DARPA team member with SIL’s VBITS enabling technology to support DARPA’s ALASA goal to launch a 100 pound satellite into LEO for $1 million total cost per launch” said Edmund Burke, Space Information Laboratories, CEO.