In-Orbit Demonstration and Data Acquisition of a Hyperspectral Microwave Sounder (HyMS)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has awarded a sole-source contract modification to Spire Global, Inc. for in-orbit demonstration and data acquisition services from a Hyperspectral Microwave Sounder instrument, with a modification value of $5 million and an extended period of performance from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027.

The justification cites 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(1) under FAR 6.103-1, only one responsible source, on the basis that Spire Global is the sole commercial vendor with a currently operational, space-qualified hyperspectral microwave system capable of delivering the required synoptic spaceborne data within the mandated timeframe to satisfy FY26 Congressional Directives. Market research confirmed that competing entities developing hyperspectral microwave prototypes are limited to airborne or balloon-borne deployments at Technology Readiness Levels 5 or 6 and lack space-qualification for immediate operational evaluation. The original contract 1332KP22CNEEP0014 was awarded on September 21, 2022; this is the fourth bilateral modification, addressing prior SpaceX launch delays. The HyMS instrument launched on January 11, 2026, aboard Spire's 16U LEMUR satellite. Under the modification, Spire will collect, process, and deliver Level 1 science-grade brightness temperature data to support the NESDIS Commercial Data Program and comprehensive evaluation of hyperspectral microwave technology impact on global Numerical Weather Prediction models across a full annual atmospheric cycle. The total contract value reaches $9.75 million. A presolicitation notice published May 1–16, 2026, yielded no capability statements. The Contracting Officer will conduct detailed cost and price analysis prior to contract conclusion and will require Spire to submit Certified Cost or Pricing Data.