GlobalX Challenge 26.2: Naval Southern Hemisphere Space Weather and Plasmas (NSHSWP)

The Office of Naval Research is soliciting applications for the GlobalX Challenge 26.2: Naval Southern Hemisphere Space Weather and Plasmas, with white papers due July 10, 2026, and full proposals due August 31, 2026. Teams must be led by non-U.S.-based research entities from academia or industry, though U.S.-based entities may participate as team members.

The challenge seeks ground-breaking methods to improve analysis and forecasts of bottomside ionospheric electron density in the Southern Hemisphere, with emphasis on the magnetic equator near the Andes Cordillera. Proposals must present novel approaches either developing new models at Technology Readiness Level-3 or exploring unique sensor modalities for calibrating or validating existing models relevant to data-driven ionospheric models in high-latitude maritime regions or predictive localization of sporadic perturbations. Applications address Navy communications, navigation, and space situational awareness.

ONR Global will award one or multiple research grants totaling up to $500,000 per award, comprising a twelve-month base period of $250,000 and an optional twelve-month extension of $250,000. White papers must not exceed five pages in 12-point Times New Roman font, plus a separate quad chart and spreadsheet. Selected teams will participate in a Proposal Pitch Day on August 7, 2026, or proceed directly to full proposal submission. Award notification is anticipated by August 10, 2026, with grant awards anticipated September 30, 2026.

Evaluation criteria include overall scientific and technical merit, naval relevance, offeror capabilities and experience, qualifications of the Principal Investigator and key personnel, and cost realism. The program operates under Assistance Listing 12.300 (Basic and Applied Scientific Research). A kick-off webinar is scheduled for June 18, 2026, at 2:00 pm GMT. Questions should be directed to usn.ncr.onrghq.list.grantsproposals@us.navy.mil.