The initiative, run through the Air Force Research Laboratory’s SpaceWERX division in partnership with the United States Space Force’s (USSF) Operational Test and Training Infrastructure (OTTI) Program executive office, is calling on small businesses with Phase II Small Business Innovation Research awards to apply.
Colonel Corey Klopstein, program executive officer for OTTI, said the effort was central to improving Space Force readiness.
Col Klopstein added, “The Hyperspace Challenge supports our ongoing efforts to improve Space Force readiness by making the Guardian training environment more realistic and improving the test environment in which we validate future space system performance.”
The 2025 program is targeting three priority technology areas:
- Data processing and integration – secure, scalable systems for managing and sharing data across multiple domains and agencies.
- Pattern of Life (PoL) tools – near-real-time analysis of activity in space and on the ground to forecast satellite manoeuvres and assess operational capabilities.
- Digital twins – advanced modelling to replicate satellites, ground stations and networks across multiple security levels.
Major Matthew Blackford of SpaceWERX said the initiative leverages companies that are already proving their value.
“By engaging Phase II companies, we’re supporting solutions that can transition quickly from concept to operational impact tackling real-world challenges faced by the USSF,” he said.
Participants will enter a structured program in October 2025, including six to 10 webinars, tailored one-on-one sessions with US government and industry experts, and a two-day in-person “collider” event in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on 5–6 November 2025.
While the program is aimed primarily at US firms, there are potential avenues for Australian industry. Local companies already active in the NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman supply chains as well as those specialising in areas such as augmented and virtual reality, advanced simulation, data analytics, and AI-driven systems may be well positioned to form partnerships or integrate into downstream projects.
With Australia investing heavily in its own space and defence sectors, programs like Hyperspace Challenge provide a valuable window into US defence priorities, as well as opportunities for local firms to adapt technologies for allied use and gain exposure to American military and commercial partners.
Applications for the Hyperspace Challenge open on 27 August 2025 and close on 16 September 2025. Participation does not guarantee contracts but offers direct access to end users and mentorship aimed at accelerating commercial deployment.
Since its launch in 2018, the accelerator has supported more than 60 small businesses and universities across the US and abroad.