WASHINGTON - Umbra, a space radar technology company based in Santa Barbara, California, announced it has been selected by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as a commercial provider for its commercial satellite data acquisition (CSDA) program. The CSDA Program will acquire Umbra synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data under a five-year, multiple-award, indefinite delivery indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract.
The purpose of this contract is to acquire Earth observation data and related services from commercial sources to support NASA's Earth science research and application activities. Umbra satellites generate the highest resolution SAR data ever offered commercially. By capturing images at night, through cloud cover, smoke, and rain, SAR satellites have the unique ability to monitor change. Umbra's offering will complement NASA's Earth observation data by providing assured, all-weather, day or night intelligence collection. This contract provides NASA with cost-effective means to augment and/or complement the suite of Earth observation data acquired by NASA and other US government agencies, as well as those acquired by international partners and agencies.
"Umbra is extremely excited to partner with NASA on this program," said Omar Wheatley, Director of Strategic Programs. "We are pleased to see the US Government as a whole leverage the best products the burgeoning commercial space market offers today. We are also excited to support NASA and other US government agencies and international partners with our industry-leading SAR data to help address the hardest scientific and global environmental challenges ahead."
Umbra currently has six satellites in its constellation, and has two more satellites launching later this year. Umbra is licensed to operate 32 satellites to support both commercial customers and various programs for the U.S. Federal Government.
