Thruster advancements for low-altitude operations in space (talos)
Other Transaction IDV Awarded Last action
- Contract number
- HR00112490391
- Awardee
-
University Of Texas At Austin UEI V6AFQPN18437
- Awarding agency
-
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
Department of Defense
- Task orders
- 0
Award facts
- Last date to order
- Not on record
- IDV ceiling
- $999,980.00
- Contracting staff
- NAICS code
- Not on record
- Set-aside
- No set-aside
- Competition
- Competed Program Solicitation
- Pricing
- Other
Award details come from SAM.gov/FPDS.
About this IDV
The University of Texas at Austin was awarded a multiple-award Other Transaction Indefinite Delivery Vehicle by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency on March 15, 2024, with a ceiling value of $999,980. This IDV supports two related research initiatives: Thruster Advancements for Low-Altitude Operations in Space (TALOS) and development of an air-breathing magneto-deflagration thruster for very low earth orbit (VLEO) satellite propulsion. The contract represents a competitive, non-set-aside acquisition mechanism designed to facilitate flexible task order issuance as research milestones and development objectives progress. As a public research institution with established expertise in aerospace engineering and advanced propulsion systems, UT Austin serves as the prime contractor responsible for conducting the requisite research, analysis, and prototype development activities under this defense technology initiative.
The TALOS program and associated VLEO propulsion research address critical capability gaps in satellite operations at altitudes below traditional low earth orbit. UT Austin's role encompasses the scientific and engineering work necessary to advance magneto-deflagration thruster technology capable of sustained performance in the thin atmosphere of very low earth orbit, which presents unique challenges distinct from conventional space propulsion environments. Under the Other Transaction authority, which provides flexibility for innovative research and development activities, the university will execute specific work efforts through delivery orders issued against the $999,980 ceiling. The program aligns with the Department of Defense's strategic interest in advanced space technologies and next-generation propulsion systems to maintain technological advantage in the space domain.
Transactions
| Action | Obligated | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Other Administrative Action | $0 | |
| Other Administrative Action | $0 | |
| Funding Only Action | $499,990 | |
| Exercise an Option | $200,000 | |
| Other Administrative Action | $0 | |
| Funding Only Action | $144,690 | |
| Original award | $155,300 |
Subawards
| Subcontractor | Amount | Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Busek Co., Inc. | $120,000 |
Quick answers
Who was awarded contract HR00112490391?
HR00112490391 was awarded to University Of Texas At Austin by Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (Department of Defense) on March 15, 2024.
How much is contract HR00112490391 worth?
HR00112490391's own ceiling is $999,980.
Was contract HR00112490391 competed?
The extent of competition for HR00112490391 was competed.
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