Aalyria Spacetime software. Photo: Aalyria

The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) will evaluate Aalyria’s Spacetime network orchestration software as a candidate for a future “network of networks” concept under a new selection announced Thursday. 

The AFRL’s Rapid Architecture Prototyping and Integration Development (RAPID) program selected Aalyria for the Space Data Network Experimentation (SDNX) program. The SDNX looks to explore architectures integrating spacecraft, ground segments, and advanced communication links for the joint force. 

As part of SDNX, Aalyria will perform a focused technical study, working closely with AFRL to analyze how Spacetime’s capabilities align with the video for the Space Data Network. It will also look at gaps and how to meet requirements and integration considerations, and recommend a path for future experimentation and potentially operational use in the future. 

These activities are being executed under the AFRL’s Space Technology Advanced Research Fast-tracking Innovative Software and Hardware (STAR-FISH) initiative which supports R&D and experimentation for space-related signal, energy, and transportation technologies in support of national defense.

“SDNX is about proving that a truly hybrid, federated Space Data Network is ready to move from concept toward reality,” said Aalyria CTO Brian Barritt. “Spacetime was built specifically to orchestrate large, dynamic constellations and directional links across land, sea, air, and space. We’re excited to work with AFRL and the broader Space Force community to explore how software-driven orchestration can give warfighters assured, mission-aware connectivity over any available network.”