Momentus secures contract modification from Space Development Agency for Vigoride
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Feb 02, 2024

Momentus Inc. (NASDAQ: MNTS), a pioneering space infrastructure firm, has recently been awarded a significant contract modification from the Space Development Agency (SDA), valued at $1,196,404. This contract is part of a broader Small Business Innovation Research Award, totaling $1,942,477, aimed at advancing the development of the Vigoride Orbital Service Vehicle to meet the nuanced requirements of the Department of Defense (DoD).

The Vigoride Orbital Service Vehicle, known for its versatility, is set to undergo tailored enhancements to support a broad spectrum of DoD payloads and mission needs. This initiative highlights the vehicle's capacity to adapt to the evolving demands of national security, promising a swift progression toward an in-space flight demonstration. Momentus CEO John Rood commented on the vehicle's capabilities, noting, "Vigoride's flexibility, payload capacity, and power make it well-positioned to support a range of national security missions like space situational awareness, surveillance, reconnaissance, and other priorities."

The expansion of this contract signifies the SDA's confidence in Vigoride's potential to bolster the DoD's operational capabilities in space. Rood expressed enthusiasm for the agency's decision to enhance Vigoride, aligning it more closely with the SDA and DoD's increasing needs for national security missions.

In a strategic move to broaden its defense and security offerings, Momentus also introduced the M-1000 satellite bus, derived from the space-proven Vigoride technology. This latest contract extension not only facilitates the improvement of the Vigoride Orbital Service Vehicle but also positions the M-1000 satellite bus as a viable platform for a variety of missions, including communications and missile tracking.

The M-1000 satellite bus is presented as a compelling option for both commercial and government entities, featuring up to 3 kW of peak power, substantial payload capacity, flexible configuration, and rapid delivery from requirements to orbit. Its competitive cost structure further enhances its appeal to commercial constellation providers and the U.S. Government alike.

This contract modification with the SDA underscores Momentus' commitment to innovating within the space sector, tailoring its technologies to meet the stringent requirements of defense and national security missions. The adaptation of the Vigoride Orbital Service Vehicle and the introduction of the M-1000 satellite bus mark significant milestones in the company's efforts to support the United States' strategic interests in space.

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