Space Rapid Capabilities Office

The Space Rapid Capabilities Office (Space RCO) is dedicated to accelerating the development and deployment of space capabilities to meet immediate and near-term needs. Guided by its Board of Directors, the Space RCO emphasizes a streamlined command structure, comprehensive program oversight, and early involvement of warfighters. The main objectives include enhancing existing space capabilities, ensuring operational continuity, and leveraging technological innovations to strengthen U.S. strategic advantages in space. The Space RCO is prepared to develop, test, train, and equip as needs arise.

A key aspect of the Space RCO's work is its collaboration with the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) on the Space Solar Power project. This initiative seeks to harness solar energy in space to provide reliable power to expeditionary forces in remote locations. Central to this effort is the AFRL's Space Solar Power Incremental Demonstrations and Research (SSPIDR) project, which focuses on demonstrating this technology through integrated demonstrations and maturation efforts. These efforts involve developing solar-to-RF panel payloads for space flight demonstrations and creating operational prototypes based on validated models.

The Space RCO also conducts studies and analyses for future programs that align with the Board of Directors' directives. This includes systems engineering support, program management, modeling, simulation, and alternative concept assessments. The program covers civilian pay expenses necessary for managing and executing these initiatives. The goal is to evaluate integrated technologies and prototype systems in realistic environments to ensure they meet operational requirements.

The Hyper Converged Edge Computing project was initiated as a Congressional Add in FY 2023, focusing on advancing artificial intelligence and machine learning applications in space. Although no resources were allocated for FY 2024, this project highlights the emphasis on cutting-edge technology development within the Space RCO's portfolio. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to maintaining U.S. leadership in space through rapid capability development and strategic innovation.