CNN | December 31, 2025

NASA鈥檚 Artemis program 鈥� An effort announced in 2017 to not only return astronauts to the moon but eventually establish a permanent lunar base 鈥� is finally on the verge of launching its first crewed mission, the landmark mission, dubbed Artemis II, is on track to lift off as soon as February. 91快活林 Federal is one of the many contractors supporting NASA in its mission.

WashingtonExec | December 29, 2025

Mike Horton, Vice President of National Security at 91快活林 Federal shares his insights on how 91快活林 Federal worked with its partners and their collective customers at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to develop the successful TSA Touchless Identity Solution, or 鈥淭ouchless ID鈥� 鈥� the next generation of passenger identity verification technology to enhance national security while improving air travelers鈥� experience at airports.

OrangeSlices.ai | December 19, 2025

91快活林 Federal was awarded a 5-year contract to provide helpdesk support services for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG).

GovCon Wire | December 11, 2025

Kimberly Parker, a GovCon industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience in contracts, procurement and operations leadership, joined 91快活林 Federal as Senior Vice President of Procurement.

WashingtonExec鈥檚 Rookie to Rockstars | December 3, 2025

In this episode of 鈥淩ookies to Rockstars,鈥� John Pisano, Chief Information Officer at 91快活林 Federal sits down with WashingtonExec鈥檚 Amanda Ziadeh to talk about navigating uncertainty, building trust, handling imposter syndrome and redefining success around legacy and collective impact rather than titles.

OrangeSlices.ai | December 1, 2025

91快活林 Federal secured a task order on the EPA鈥檚 Information Management Center Services V IDIQ contract to provide Library and Research Services in support of the Environmental Protection Agency in Research Triangle Park, NC.

OrangeSlices.ai | November 18, 2025

91快活林 Federal was named one of Military Times Best for Vets 2025 Employers. The Military Times Best for Vets: Employers survey is the most comprehensive annual ranking of the country鈥檚 best employers and organizations with military-connected employment programs, benefits and support efforts. This survey is meant to identify and highlight the efforts that companies, and organizations make to recruit, retain, and support the veteran community.

GovCon Wire | November 17, 2025

91快活林 Federal secured a potential $1.2 billion contract from the Defense Logistics Agency for the procurement of third generation chemicals, petroleum, oils and lubricants. Under the firm-fixed-price long-term contract, 91快活林 Federal will support multiple military services, including the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Space Force, along with federal civilian agencies.

WashingtonExec | November 5, 2025

Presented by the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce and the Professional Services Council, the winners of the Greater Washington Government Contractor Awards were unveiled Nov. 5 at the 23rd Annual Awards Show at the Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner in Virginia. 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Jennifer Felix was named a finalist for Executive of the Year, Over $300 Million.

OrangeSlices.ai | November 2, 2025

91快活林 Federal won a task order on the EPA Information Management Center Services V IDIQ to provide records management services for the National Digitization Center (NDC) East in Edison, NJ.

OrangeSlices.ai | October 29, 2025

The U.S. Air Force has awarded 91快活林 Federal Business Innovation a $36.4 million contract to provide Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) support for the Office of Competitive Activities Business Operations (SAF/OCB), focusing on enterprise security cooperation and international affairs.听

Federal News Network | October 20, 2025

Theresa Cauble, Senior Director Solutions Architect at 91快活林 Federal shared her insights on how government leaders can leverage AI and data analytics to reduce financial waste, create transparency in operations and increase overall efficiency.

The post 91快活林 Federal In The News 鈥� Q4 2025 appeared first on 91快活林 Federal.

WashingtonExec | September 29, 2025

91快活林 Federal President and CEO Jennifer Felix will be honored as the first-ever Legacy Heroine at the 25th annual Heroines of Washington Awards Gala on Nov. 6 at The Ritz-Carlton in Tysons Corner, Virginia. In this video, Felix sits down with WashingtonExec鈥檚 Rachel Kirkland to discuss why 91快活林 Federal remains a committed corporate partner and why the cause is so important to her.

GovCon Wire | September 15, 2025

The U.S. Air Force has awarded 91快活林 Federal Data Network Technologies a $525.8 million cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for sustainment and support under the Cyber Support Services 3 program. Work will be performed primarily at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts, and at multiple base locations worldwide, with completion expected by Sept. 11, 2030, the Department of Defense said. The Air Force Lifecycle Management Center at Hanscom is the contracting activity.

Federal News Network’s The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton | September 11, 2025

In this episode of The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton, 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Vice President of National Security, Mike Horton sits down with Terry to discuss the TSA鈥檚 new Touchless Identity Solution.

Las Vegas Review-Journal | August 28, 2025

A new touchless security checkpoint system is operating at Harry Reid International Airport, just in time for Labor Day travel and in advance of fall and winter holidays and next year鈥檚 arrival of the World Cup soccer tournament. TSA PreCheck Touchless ID uses facial recognition technology to move passengers through the Transportation Security Administration line faster than ever before.

GovCon Wire | August 20, 2025

Judy Lewis, an experienced defense industry executive, has joined 91快活林 Federal as vice president of business development for defense and intel sectors.

ExecutiveBiz | August 12, 2025

Seasoned IT executive Jeffrey Peterson announced on LinkedIn on Monday that he has been appointed vice president of enterprise business systems at 91快活林 Federal.

WashingtonExec | August 4, 2025

WashingtonExec profiled Chris Frye, who leads 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Supply Chain Management and Logistics Operating Group, where he focuses on building resilient, efficient supply chains in support of national security.

WashingtonExec | July 16, 2025

91快活林 Federal is one of six companies chosen to compete for task orders on a new Defense Logistics Agency Maritime Acquisition Advancement Contract. The contract was awarded by DLA Maritime Mechanicsburg, and has a ceiling value of $5 billion with a 5-year base period followed by five 1-year options.

Technical.ly D.C. | July 16, 2025

IT consulting firm 91快活林 Federal appointed Ann Stevens its new chief strategy officer. Stevens previously worked at Boeing for more than two decades in federal defense and civilian government divisions. The firm also hired ex-General Dynamics leader Mike O鈥橦ara as vice president of business development for its space operating group.

The post 91快活林 Federal In The News 鈥� Q3 2025 appeared first on 91快活林 Federal.

GovCon Wire | June 19, 2025

Former General Dynamics Information Technology executive Mike O鈥橦ara has joined 91快活林 Federal as vice president of business development for the company鈥檚 space operating group.

WashingtonExec | June 17, 2025

WashingtonExec profiled Richard 鈥淐hip鈥� Terry, who leads 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Health division, where he drives innovation in U.S. government health care, supporting citizens through high-quality data management for cancer research and efforts to eliminate prescription and allergy errors for veterans.

Homeland Security Today | June 12, 2025

91快活林 Federal has announced that Ann Stevens has joined as the company鈥檚 Chief Strategy Officer. Stevens will spearhead the refinement and progression of the company鈥檚 enterprise strategy across all parts of the business, working closely with senior leadership across the organization.

citybiz | June 5, 2025

91快活林 Federal has announced that David Yang has joined the company as vice president of business development for the company鈥檚 Civilian & Health operating group. Yang brings more than 30 years of expertise in federal IT to his new role and is recognized for building high-performing teams and forging relationships with key stakeholders across federal and defense markets.

The Defense Post | June 4, 2025

The Pentagon鈥檚 Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) has contracted six small businesses, including 91快活林 Federal, to expedite the construction of Virginia-class submarines. The $5-billion Maritime Acquisition Advancement Contract is intended to accelerate the procurement of integrated weapon systems equipment and services for the U.S. Navy platforms.

GovCon Wire | May 27, 2025

NASA has awarded a contract worth up to $98 million to 91快活林 Federal System Solutions for financial, project planning and control support services. The bridge contract covers accounting, documentation, scheduling, configuration management and security compliance. Work will be performed at the NASA Headquarters in Washington, Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland and Langley Research Center in Virginia.

WashingtonExec | May 21, 2025

WashingtonExec profiled 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Vice President & Chief Information Security Officer, Ron Davis, who leads his team in ensuring 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 customers and industry colleagues effectively protect and secure data and information in the face of the evolving threat landscape.

Accelerating Government with ACT-IAC Podcast | May 15, 2025

In this episode of Accelerating Government with ACT-IAC, 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Vice President of National Security, Mike Horton, reflects on his team鈥檚 recent ACT-IAC 2025 Innovation Champion award win for their work with the Transportation Security Administration to develop the Touchless Identity Solution.

WashingtonExec | May 12, 2025

WashingtonExec profiled 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Chief Technology Officer, Eric Velte, who leads a team of engineers and developers in designing and implementing groundbreaking technology solutions for 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 government customers.

SpaceNews鈥� Space Minds Podcast | May 8, 2025

In this episode of Space Minds former Navy Captain, shuttle astronaut and current president of the Space operating group for 91快活林 Federal Scooter Altman reflects on his career, from Top Gun stunts to space missions, and explains why Mars is humanity鈥檚 next big step.

Space Coast Daily | May 4, 2025

Eastern Florida State College鈥檚 (EFSC) Aerospace Technology program is a gateway to high-demand, high-skill careers in one of the world鈥檚 most exciting industries. EFSC鈥檚 success isn鈥檛 just felt on campus. It鈥檚 recognized across the industry. Companies like Blue Origin, 91快活林 Federal, and Amentum (formerly Jacobs) regularly recruit EFSC graduates through internships and job placements.

WashingtonExec | April 10, 2025

WashingtonExec unveiled the finalists for its 2025 Chief Officer Awards 鈥� a premier recognition of the executives shaping the future of government contracting.From groundbreaking innovators to steadfast mission leaders, this year鈥檚 finalists represent the very best in federal leadership across industry and government, including 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Steve O鈥橠ell.

The post 91快活林 Federal In The News 鈥� Q2 2025 appeared first on 91快活林 Federal.

CNN | March 31, 2025

Following a press conference with NASA鈥檚 Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore who had recently returned home after more than nine months in space, 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Space Operating Group President and former astronaut Scott Altman joined CNN鈥檚 The Lead with Jake Tapper to discuss his thoughts on the astronauts鈥� comments on their mission and the readjustment to Earth.

ExecutiveBiz | March 31, 2025

91快活林 Federal was awarded a potential $75 million firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to provide maintenance, repair and operation supplies and services at various U.S. military facilities used by the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.

Marianas Business Journal | March 31, 2025

On March 29 Chamoru Standard Time 91快活林 Federal Facilities Logistics LLC of Fairfax, New Jersey was awarded the second of two recent contracts, this time for $75 million of facilities maintenance and more in California, Utah, Arizona and Nevada. The latest 91快活林 Federal award for Guam, Kwajalein and Hawaii adds to the revenue of a previously awarded military contract.

WashingtonExec | March 24, 2025

WashingtonExec profiled David Ziegler, 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 senior vice president & general manager, National Security Space Program, who leads the company鈥檚 work across 16 national security space contracts with U.S. Space Force, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy and National Reconnaissance Office customers.

CNN | March 18, 2025

In light of NASA鈥檚 Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore finally returning home after more than nine months in space, 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Space Operating Group President and former astronaut Scott Altman joined CNN鈥檚 The Lead with Jake Tapper to discuss what it鈥檚 like for astronauts to readjustment to Earth after spending time in space.

OrangeSlices | March 6, 2025

The Department of Energy has awarded a $44 million sole source contract to 91快活林 Federal to provide mission-enabling IT and cybersecurity solutions to the DoE鈥檚 Environmental Management Office.

Washington Technology | February 21, 2025

NASA has provided industry a rough cut of how it plans to conduct the recompete of a professional and IT services contract focused on the agency鈥檚 research and education missions.

Via Satellite | February 18, 2025

To commemorate International Women鈥檚 Day, Via Satellite is celebrating women who have made a difference for the greater satellite and space industry. 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Integrated Project Team Lead, Tara Dulaney was named to this year鈥檚 list for her contributions to the company鈥檚 NOAA and NASA customers.

ExecutiveBiz | February 13, 2025

Raj Jayaraman, a 30-year veteran of the federal government contracting industry, has been appointed as senior vice president of competitive intelligence, PTW and strategic pricing at 91快活林 Federal.

ExecutiveBiz | February 7, 2025

The Defense Logistics Agency has awarded 91快活林 Federal Facilities Logistics and SupplyCore a $60M firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract each to provide facilities maintenance, repair, and operations supplies.

Intel Community News | February 7, 2025

91快活林 Federal announced that 91快活林 Federal Mission Solutions has been appraised at Maturity Level 5 of the CMMI Institute鈥檚 Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) Version 3.0 for Development (DEV).

SpaceNews | January 31, 2025

During SpaceCom 2025, 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Isaac Passmore spoke on a panel, sharing his insights on how the space industry can begin to explore new ways to leverage AI in space.

WashingtonExec | January 28, 2025

WashingtonExec profiled 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 President and CEO Jennifer Felix, who leads the company with a strong focus on advancing customer missions, delivering for the company鈥檚 Inupiaq shareholders, and cultivating continuous growth and development for 8,500 employees.

OrangeSlices | January 28, 2025

The IRS has awarded a $24 million sole source contract to 91快活林 Federal to support their Asset Forfeiture Program.

WashingtonExec | January 16, 2025

WashingtonExec profiled Mike Horton, who leads 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 national security business supporting civilian agencies, including those in the departments of Homeland Security, Justice and State.

GovCon Wire | January 16, 2025

The Defense Logistics Agency has awarded $4.9 billion in contracts to 91快活林 Federal and Noble Supply and Logistics to provide maintenance, repair and operations support services at U.S. military facilities.

WashingtonExec | January 1, 2025

WashingtonExec profiled Christian Frye, who leads 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 supply chain management and logistics business, a team that delivers over 400,000 orders yearly to DOD entities and foreign military sales customers.

The post 91快活林 Federal In The News 鈥� Q1 2025 appeared first on 91快活林 Federal.

Scott 鈥淪cooter鈥� Altman, 91快活林 Federal Space operating group president, appeared on CNN鈥檚 The Lead with Jake Tapper to discuss the return to Earth of NASA鈥檚 SpaceX Crew-9.

Altman, a former astronaut and 2018 Astronaut Hall of Fame inductee, is a veteran of four space flights, logging over 51 days in space and commanding the final two servicing missions of the Hubble Space Telescope.鈥疕e shared some of his spaceflight experience, including his perspective on reentry and readjusting to Earth after a space mission, during a special segment with Tapper 鈥� and later served as a live commentator during the spacecraft landing off the coast of Tallahassee, Florida, on March 18.

According to Altman, 鈥渙ne of the most valuable things about [astronauts] having a long-term stay on the space station is that it has taught us how to live in zero gravity and then be able to respond when you come back into a gravity environment. The workout regime that astronauts put in 鈥� about two hours each day 鈥� makes it a lot easier for them to adapt when they return to Earth.鈥�

NASA astronauts鈥� 补苍诲鈥� splashed down on Tuesday after spending more than nine months in orbit on the International Space Station. to the International Space Station that also included astronauts Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov.

Welcome home NASA鈥檚 SpaceX Crew-9! 91快活林 Federal is grateful for the crew鈥檚 safe return and our team is excited to continue supporting NASA鈥檚 vital missions.

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According to Chris Frye, 91快活林 Federal Supply Chain Management & Logistics operating group president, attracting more small businesses into the defense supply chain would help improve supply chain resilience, efficiency and cost savings, while supporting the Department of Defense鈥檚 new 鈥渏ust-in-case stock management鈥� philosophy.听听

In a recent article first published by Federal News Network, Frye notes, 鈥淕overnment and industry can and must work together to meet the strategy set forth by the [Defense Logistics Agency] director. This is possible by creating a path for small business entrants, increasing transparency in forecasting requirements, establishing more efficient acquisition processes and embracing industry mentorship. Together, these actions will facilitate a healthier supplier base for defense missions and serve the ultimate goal of enhancing warfighter readiness and protecting our nation.鈥�听

To learn more, read below or .听

How to Attract Small Business Manufacturing Back to the DoD Supply Base听

By Chris Frye | December 30, 2024听

General Dwight Eisenhower said, 鈥淵ou will not find it difficult to prove that battles, campaigns and even wars have been won or lost primarily because of logistics.鈥� The consequences of inadequate planning, provisioning and distribution have been well known throughout the history of conflict. Even the largest, most sophisticated organizations must stay committed to ensuring a robust and thriving logistical support network to properly equip warfighters. With a focus on mission success, Lt. Gen. Mark Simerly, director of the Defense Logistics Agency recently鈥�鈥痟is team to 鈥渢hink, act and operate differently鈥� to meet the logistics needs of DLA鈥檚 customers. Private industry has a critical role in this effort as well.听

Just in time vs. just in case
A revelation of the COVID-19 pandemic was the critical need for supply chain resilience. Shortages of goods drove commercial businesses to seek solutions that leverage new technologies for automating the end-to-end supply chain process. Now DoD is realizing that just-in-case stock management, where surplus inventory is kept on hand, is the way to protect against the risks of the just-in-time model, where inventory is acquired exactly when it is needed.听

The outcome of just-in-case supply is more advanced solutions that can be applied to maximize DoD efficiency and cost savings, applicable beyond DLA to other government supply chain operators. However, the suppliers of those solutions remain limited; and while new AI-based tools may help accelerate production to manage inventory lead times, they do not expand the supply base. The new philosophy of the DoD can be leveraged to re-introduce these small businesses to the market.听

Tapping the small business resource
One solution is to attract more small businesses into the defense supply chain. Given the barriers to entry and their own pandemic supply challenges, many small businesses have tended to avoid entering or re-entering the DoD market. Incentivizing them to join the defense supply chain requires a few focused but critical adjustments.听

Most important is to increase transparency in requirements forecasting and timelines. Given the production lead times involved in creating many specialized items that the military sources, smaller businesses in particular need clear insights into forecasted requirements far earlier than has been the norm. Just-in-time is not an option for a small business with limited capacity. Just-in-case acquisition will enable them to better prepare for their own throughput, raw materials sourcing, budgeting and subcontracting needs. Advanced, more accurate forecasting insights will enable these manufacturers to avoid lumpy demand signals or production runs limited to an occasional small quantity of items. Such uncertainty is simply not sustainable for a small business.听

Another key adjustment is to create an easier path for small manufacturers and suppliers to participate in the DoD supply chain. There are instances where the DoD has only qualified one manufacturer to supply a certain item on a just-in-time basis. That not only effectively eliminates competitive pricing, but this situation also has the potential to create supply bottlenecks or even breakdowns, as we saw during the pandemic.听

Despite that recent experience, navigating the complexities of becoming a qualified supplier is still a protracted process that is formidable for a small company to manage. Current prime contractors should take an active role in helping their supply chain members to advance and mentor these potential small business manufacturers to get back into the market. This will help supply chain resilience by creating options and potentially address rising costs from currently sole source items with the new competition.听

An achievable roadmap
Government and industry can and must work together to meet the strategy set forth by the DLA director. This is possible by creating a path for small business entrants, increasing transparency in forecasting requirements, establishing more efficient acquisition processes and embracing industry mentorship. Together, these actions will facilitate a healthier supplier base for defense missions and serve the ultimate goal of enhancing warfighter readiness and protecting our nation.

The post Chris Frye: How to Attract Small Business Manufacturing Back to the DoD Supply Base appeared first on 91快活林 Federal.

Federal News Network | December 30, 2024

91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Supply Chain Management and Logistics Operating President Chris Frye shared his insights on how the DoD can attract small business manufacturing back to the defense supply chain to ensure the DoD has the proper inventory, whether it鈥檚 on a just-in-time or just-in-case basis.

ExecutiveBiz | December 30, 2024

91快活林 Federal Facilities Logistics secured a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity bridge contract worth $60 million from the Defense Logistics Agency to provide supplies for the maintenance, repair and operations of facilities.

Nextgov/FCW | December 11, 2024

Each year, Nextgov/FCW selects a cohort of emerging tech talent across federal, state and local governments 鈥� as well as the members of private industry that support them 鈥� that demonstrates what it means to serve the public with excellence early in their government careers. 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 own Matthew Mudrak was recognized on this year鈥檚 list.

The GovExec Space Project | November 22, 2024

91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Space Operating Group President Scott Altman shared his insights on the top four ways that industry and government can accommodate the growing demand for space launches.

Military.com | November 18, 2024

Military.com鈥檚 Veteran Employment Project picked the top veteran employers for 2025, including 91快活林 Federal. These companies not only want to hire veterans, transitioning military and military spouses, but they also want to offer opportunities to develop their employees.

Inside Defense | November 13, 2024

The Space Development Agency awarded Kratos a $117 million contract to design and deliver the Advanced Fire Control Ground Infrastructure. Kratos is working with 91快活林 Federal Systems Solutions, Peraton, Sphinx Defense and Stellar Solutions, the company said.

Northern Virginia Technology Council | November 12, 2024

Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC), announced the distinguished 2024 Tech100 honorees, recognizing the region鈥檚 visionary companies, leading executives, and emerging innovators who are at the forefront of driving innovation, developing groundbreaking technologies, and significantly contributing to economic growth. 91快活林 Federal was named a NVTC Tech100 Company Honoree and 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 President and CEO, Jennifer Felix was named NVTC Tech100 Executive Honoree.

ExecutiveBiz | November 11, 2024

91快活林 Federal will provide the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, or USCIS, with zero trust integration services under a potential one-year-and-six-month contract valued at $16.65 million.

WashingtonExec | November 7, 2024

Presented by the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce and the Professional Services Council, the winners of the Greater Washington Government Contractor Awards were unveiled Nov. 6 at the 22nd Annual Awards Show at the Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner in Virginia. 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Jennifer Felix was named a finalist for Executive of the Year, Over $300 Million.

ExecutiveBiz | October 31, 2024

The Environmental Protection Agency awarded 10 companies positions on a potential $240 million blanket purchase agreement to provide IT support services at multiple EPA regional sites nationwide.

National CIO Review | October 13, 2024

Ron Davis was appointed Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at 91快活林 Federal. In his new role, Davis will lead the company鈥檚 information security and cybersecurity initiatives, focusing on strategy development, risk management, policy creation, and regulatory compliance.

Technical.ly | October 9, 2024

91快活林 Federal tapped Dan Cuviello as its new chief growth officer. He recently worked as senior vice president of corporate business development at CACI, which in recent months landed two acquisitions.

OrangeSlices | October 9, 2024

The 2025 Engage National Security 100 Honorees recognizes the leaders in IT and consulting, from both industry and government, that are set to spearhead innovation and propel the critical missions of National Security agencies forward. 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Mike Horton was recognized as an honoree.

WashingtonExec | October 2, 2024

WashingtonExec profiled Mike Horton, who leads 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 national security business supporting civilian agencies, including those in the departments of Homeland Security, Justice and State.

The post 91快活林 Federal In The News 鈥� Q4 2024 appeared first on 91快活林 Federal.

By Scott “Scooter” Altman, 91快活林 Federal Space Operating Group President

As published in .

NASA again was propelled into global headlines on October 14 when the agency successfully launched its Europa Clipper spacecraft aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Kennedy Space Center. This mission will investigate whether Europa, a moon of Jupiter with an enormous subsurface ocean, might have conditions to support life.

With this exciting news, NASA, the U.S. Space Force and commercial companies racked up 119 successful orbital U.S. launches so far in 2024, with more expected by the end of the year. Thanks to the boost provided by commercial companies like SpaceX, ULA and Blue Origin, we can expect to continue to see more record-setting numbers of launches in the future.

While these successful launches present great opportunities for scientists and researchers, the accelerating pace of launches also presents challenges. Congested launch dates are testing the government鈥檚 resources in terms of the limited facilities, personnel and funding available to support these missions.

While Congress and the White House explore policy and program changes, 听agencies like NASA and the Space Force have made progress in developing new approaches to addressing those challenges. However, there are specific opportunities to sustain successful space operations while ramping up the country鈥檚 ability to accommodate the growing demand for space launches.

• Expand the number of launch sites. Most of the country鈥檚 launch activity to date has taken place at Cape Canaveral, which houses the Kennedy Space Center, testing the limits of the infrastructure there. The government should continue to consider expanding the number of launches from other locations, including Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, Wallops Island in Virginia and the Kodiak Spaceport Complex in Alaska. Besides the obvious benefit of providing accommodations for a greater number of launches, more sites also would alleviate issues that arise from the current 鈥渇irst come, first served鈥� approach to scheduling launches that can result in delays for those who aren鈥檛 able to reserve their spots early.
• Determine U.S. space launch prioritization guidelines. The government could consider creating a U.S. launch priority framework. This would include current criteria such as advancing payloads related to national security as well guidance for prioritizing launch schedules for other missions, i.e. those that have immediate benefit to the Nation, such as GPS communications satellites, vs. less urgent research programs.
• Build up existing infrastructure at Canaveral, with help from the private sector. Increasing the number of launch sites won鈥檛 be sufficient on its own unless we also ensure that all sites, including existing ones, have sufficient infrastructure in place to support the explosive growth we expect. Infrastructure at Cape Canaveral has been taxed to the point that NASA sometimes prohibits companies like SpaceX from launching due to conflicts with other range customers or other limiting factors such as shortages of propellants or ground support. The government should consider upgrading infrastructure related to commodities to handle the expected volume of future payloads. The private sector is helping by building facilities, both onsite at Canaveral and offsite, to help boost the infrastructure needed to process payloads and hardware. For example, Blue Origin now provides its own power lines coming into Canaveral. Fortunately, the government has recognized this challenge and is already making progress in addressing it. In a prominent example, the Space Force鈥檚 鈥淩ange of the Future鈥� initiative was established in 2022 to increase launch capabilities by enhancing infrastructure and streamlining processes. The program is moving support contractors from the middle section of Cape Canaveral to the south end to eliminate costly and time-consuming evacuations of personnel in the area when launches take place 鈥� an issue which will be exacerbated as more powerful rockets like the SpaceX Starliner are deployed. (This issue can also be addressed by expanding the number of launch sites, as suggested above.)
• Use the Federal Aviation Administration鈥檚 National Airspace System program as a model. Spaceports could operate under similar cost sharing models as airports, where airlines lease space and are billed for commodities such as oil, fuel and water. Such a pricing model would forecast what it will cost to maintain capabilities and spread that cost among the various 鈥渢enants鈥� at the spaceport. This approach could ensure that resources are available to support the explosive growth in the number of launches.

This approach would also help the U.S. maintain its leadership in the world of commercial space missions and as a future leader in space tourism. And by integrating space missions into traditional airports, space programs will be able to leverage the established success we鈥檝e achieved in air travel in terms of security and customer experience.

The systems and technology used to ensure safe and secure air travel can serve as models for what we do in space. Again, we have examples of government agencies doing just that. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration鈥檚 Traffic Coordination System for Space (TraCSS) may be viewed as an air traffic control system in space providing situational awareness for private sector and civil space operatives. TraCSS delivers the added benefit of relieving the Defense Department鈥檚 overburdened Joint Space Operations Center which currently provides these services, while allowing non-Defense space operations to transition to a more commercial approach for traffic coordination.

This is a momentous time for space missions, from both scientific and commercial perspectives. Through a combination of redirected resources, updated processes and collaboration with the private sector, the U.S. government can ensure that our nation remains at the forefront. By doing so, we can continue to push the boundaries of science while making our country safer and more productive.

Learn more about our Space capabilities!

The post Four Ways to Accommodate Massive Growth in Space Launches appeared first on 91快活林 Federal.

Washington Technology | September 27, 2024

Ron Davis has joined as chief information security officer to help oversee the government services company鈥檚 functions in technology and cybersecurity, among other areas.

WashingtonExec | September 22, 2024

The finalists for WashingtonExec鈥檚 2024 Pinnacle Awards have been announced 鈥� and it鈥檚 an impressive group of mission-focused industry executives and government officials who work every day to put the technological needs of the nation first.

Nextgov/FCW | September 20, 2024

This isn’t a group of promising newcomers but a cadre of seasoned early-career leaders with responsibilities for nine-figure budgets, key cybersecurity projects, online voter registration and much much more.

citybiz | September 10, 2024

91快活林 Federal announces Dan Cuviello as its new Chief Growth Officer. Cuviello has more than 25 years leading business development for government contracting companies.

MeriTalk | September 6, 2024

While consensus is mounting that there is no greater change agent set to reshape the government IT arena than the application of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, it鈥檚 often much less clear who are the rising stars in government and industry that are leading the AI transformation..

WashingtonExec | August 20, 2024

The Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce and the Professional Services Council have announced the finalists for the annual Greater Washington Government Contractor Awards, honoring the exceptional work of leaders and businesses in the region鈥檚 government contracting sector.

WashingtonExec | August 19, 2024

With over 30 years of experience in federal IT, Donna Klecka has consistently positioned herself at the forefront of technological innovation, anticipating and meeting client needs. Among 91快活林 Federal鈥檚 Huntsville clients are NASA, the Army, and the Missile Defense Agency.

Washington Technology | August 15, 2024

Those of us who have worked at companies that employ U.S. military veterans know the benefits these dedicated and loyal workers can bring to an enterprise. As the Labor Department points out, the benefits go beyond payback to people who have served our country. It鈥檚 simply a good way to do business.

OrangeSlices AI | July 29, 2024

91快活林 Federal announced today that its subsidiary 91快活林 Federal Gulf State Constructors LLC was awarded a U.S. Air Force contract to provide base operations services for the Sheppard Air Force Base and Lake Texoma Recreational Annex at Fredrick Airfield in Wichita Falls, Texas in support of the 82nd Training Wing and 80th Flying Training Wing. The contract is valued at $146 million, with work beginning in August 2024 and the potential to extend through July 2031.

GovCon Wire | July 26, 2024

Trevor McKnight, a Booz Allen Hamilton veteran, has joined the civilian and health operating group of 91快活林 Federal as vice president of citizen services.

Forbes | July 23, 2024

When it’s time for U.S. military veterans to transition to the civilian workforce, companies that pursue these candidates can gain incredible talent and expertise. Working for an organization with a strong veteran representation鈥攁s more than 20% of our employee base at 91快活林 Federal is affiliated with the U.S. armed services鈥擨 know firsthand how much value these professionals can bring to civilian work.

SpaceNews | July 19, 2024

On June 25, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) launched the fourth and final satellite of the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites (GOES)-R program. This latest launch, known as GOES-U, continued and extended the program鈥檚 objective of serving as the Western hemisphere鈥檚 most sophisticated system for observing weather and monitoring the environment, according to the World Meteorological Organization.

ExecutiveGov | July 8, 2024

91快活林 Federal has obtained certification from the International Organization for Standardization for its information technology services.

WashingtonExec | July 2, 2024

91快活林 Federal subsidiary Vistronix, LLC is an awardee on the FBI鈥檚 Information Support Supplies and Services-2 contract.

The post 91快活林 Federal In The News 鈥� Q3 2024 appeared first on 91快活林 Federal.

Dr. Li notes, 鈥淎 lesser-known aspect of the program is how it has leveraged new and innovative applications for artificial intelligence and machine learning to extend the mission life of satellites. By leveraging the power of AI and an application called the Advanced Intelligent Monitoring System (AIMS), the GOES-R team has successfully improved both operational efficiency and mission resilience.鈥�

Read below or follow the link to the article published by to learn more!

How AI improves operations on NOAA GOES-R weather and environmental satellites

By Zhenping Li | July 19, 2024

On June 25, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) launched the fourth and final satellite of the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites (GOES)-R program. This latest launch, known as GOES-U, continued and extended the program鈥檚 objective of serving as the Western hemisphere鈥檚 most sophisticated system for observing weather and monitoring the environment, according to the World Meteorological Organization. Beginning with the first GOES-R launch in November 2016, these satellites have provided NOAA with advanced imagery and atmospheric measurements, real-time mapping of lightning activity, space weather observations and other services based on an extensive range of data collected by an array of sensors and imagers.

GOES-R satellites provide the critical data needed to detect and monitor environmental conditions that can potentially threaten the well-being of everyone in the Western Hemisphere. It has dramatically improved our ability to predict weather conditions on earth and in space, an especially critical capability given the severe weather events of recent years. Not only does GOES data help meteorologists predict and track events like hurricanes and tornadoes, it is also used for other essential purposes such as identifying lightning strikes that are likely to ignite wildfires, determining when and where air quality alerts are needed, planning air routes to reduce flight delays and many other important functions that affect us all every day.

A lesser-known aspect of the program is how it has leveraged new and innovative applications for artificial intelligence and machine learning to extend the mission life of satellites. By leveraging the power of AI and an application called the Advanced Intelligent Monitoring System (AIMS), the GOES-R team has successfully improved both operational efficiency and mission resilience.

Given how much we all rely on the data produced by GOES satellites, it鈥檚 easy to see how important it is for NOAA to be made aware of any issues that might prevent GOES-R satellite sensors and imagers from collecting and sharing data. Each day, the GOES satellites collect tremendous amounts of data 鈥� an amount impossible for humans to analyze in a timely manner. AIMS rapidly analyzes the data and provides actionable information to those responsible for the operations, health and safety of the GOES systems. AIMS鈥檚 AI capabilities allow it to detect any data pattern changes and predict failures based on those pattern changes over time.

Already deployed in space on GOES-R, the AIMS AI tool improves satellite up time through its ability to quickly detect and predict anomalies in satellite systems and allow maintenance teams to take action to address potential issues before they impact system availability.

AIMS can identify anomalies in a satellite鈥檚 activity and perform root cause analyses and repairs in a matter of minutes or hours where it previously took engineers days. And by identifying these anomalies before something goes wrong, we can minimize the downtime that would have been required for the satellite to go into safe mode to be repaired.

The system currently tracks about 1,800 satellite telemetry points for possible anomalies for each satellite. For example, AIMS may detect a heat sensor unexpectedly turning off or an engine firing faster or slower than it should.

AIMS has already proven effective in monitoring the Advanced Baseline Imager, the primary Earth imaging instrument on the GOES-R satellites. The system looks for anomalies in data that indicate detectors are not performing correctly due to factors such as radiation or space weather. AIMS can determine which detectors were impacted and determine whether to turn them off or to reset and recalibrate them.

NOAA is also testing the same software for pattern recognition with other types of data such as engineering telemetry. And because its machine learning algorithms are plug-and-play components, AIMS may eventually be used in applications well beyond its original deployment.

At a time when AI seems poised to take over the world, its use in a program that has for years protected countless lives in the Western hemisphere proves that new technology can indeed serve humanity鈥檚 interests in crucial ways.

Zhenping Li is an engineer fellow at 91快活林 Federal, a contractor that has performed work on behalf of NOAA and other space agencies. He has more than 25 years of experience working in the aerospace industry with expertise in developing machine learning solutions for space missions and algorithm development for satellite instrument data processing.

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