WASHINGTON -- Muon Space, a startup specializing in small satellites for Earth climate monitoring, has secured a $2.9 million contract from the U.S. Space Force to evaluate its satellite technology for military applications.
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 2 agreement, announced on December 5, aims to determine whether Muon's instruments can deliver high-resolution imagery of cloud cover and weather conditions crucial for military and intelligence operations.
Based in Mountain View, California, Muon Space is advancing dual-use technology through collaborations with defense and environmental stakeholders. The company's latest initiative, in partnership with the nonprofit Earth Fire Alliance, involves deploying a constellation of "FireSat" satellites in low Earth orbit to monitor wildfires and related environmental phenomena. The Space Force contract will explore how these systems can also meet defense needs.
Accurate cloud cover imaging is essential for military operations, as precision-guided munitions, satellite imagery scheduling, and reconnaissance planning depend on detailed weather data. Historically, the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) has provided this capability, but the aging fleet is nearing the end of its operational life, prompting a search for alternatives.
Muon Space's electro-optical infrared (EO/IR) instruments, designed for climate monitoring, have shown promise in fulfilling military requirements, according to CEO Jonny Dyer.
Under a previous contract with the U.S. Air Force, Muon has been assessing its capabilities to capture cloud characterization data. The new agreement expands that scope, allowing the company to evaluate its sensors' ability to deliver comprehensive weather imagery using its forthcoming FireSat constellation.
Scheduled for launch in 2026, FireSats will carry instruments tailored for both wildfire detection and weather monitoring. "It's a dual-use technology that not only supports defense priorities but also the wildfire monitoring mission," Dyer stated.
He noted that the FireSat infrared instruments will incorporate additional spectral bands to enhance cloud cover imaging capabilities. To better understand military requirements, the company has been collaborating with the Air Force's 557th Weather Wing, the military's primary meteorological unit.
Muon Space is vertically integrated, designing and building its satellites, managing launches, and delivering data directly to customers. To date, the company has launched two satellites: the first, a demonstration mission in June 2023, followed by a prototype weather satellite in March 2024, in partnership with the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center and the Defense Innovation Unit. However, this prototype does not provide the infrared data necessary for theater weather imagery.