Albatross Proposers Day Announcement

Background
The DARPA Strategic Technology Office (STO) is hosting a Proposers Day to support the Albatross program, which aims to develop effective autonomous aircraft soaring capabilities. This event will provide information on the program, facilitate discussions, and allow potential proposers to present their capabilities for teaming opportunities.

The conference will include presentations by DARPA personnel and a Q&A session.

Work Details
The Albatross program focuses on developing two significant capabilities:
1) A preflight planning tool that predicts platform performance with soaring benefits, providing multiple flight options through high-density soaring conditions.
2) An onboard real-time soaring guidance and control subsystem for small uncrewed aerial systems that can recognize and respond to soaring conditions.

The program aims to reduce onboard energy use by 75%, accurately predict soaring energy consumption within 15%, and balance energy harvesting with mission objectives. Flight testing will be conducted in various atmospheric conditions to fully demonstrate soaring capabilities.

Period of Performance
The Proposers Day event is scheduled for October 2, 2024, with registration closing on September 25, 2024.

Place of Performance
The event will take place at the Executive Conference Center (ECC), 4075 Wilson Blvd, Suite 300, Arlington, VA.