Senior Scientist- Celestial Reference Frame & Space Traffic Management

Job Description

Position Summary:

Part Time/Non-Exempt

We are seeking a Senior Scientist to lead the planning, development, deployment, and operation of systems designed to detect and track targets in the extended Geostationary Orbit (xGEO) regime. The role involves providing consultative technical services, defining requirements, and supporting space object collision and characterization analysis (SOCCA) studies.

• Detection and Tracking: Identify and analyze challenges associated with the detection, tracking, and characterization of xGEO targets.
• Navigational Analysis: Examine the application of xGEO targets for navigation and other DoD missions.
• Policy and Coordination: Address issues related to Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) policies in the xGEO environment. Coordinate with USNO, Air Force, Space Force, United States Space Command, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Requirements Development: Define and develop requirements to enhance USNO’s capabilities for improved PNT support in the xGEO regime.
• Subject Matter Expertise: Provide expert advice and support in Space Object Collision and Characterization Analysis (SOCCA) studies.

• Education: PhD in Astronomy, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years’ experience in space traffic management, space situational awareness, or space domain awareness.
• Security Clearance: TS/SCI security clearance required.
• Skills: Proven expertise in celestial reference frames, astrometric and photometric data analysis, and use of both COTS and GOTS tools for orbit determination.

• Performance
  
  Location:
  
  Tasks to be performed at the contractor’s regular working location.
• Meetings: Participation in monthly planning meetings at USNO’s Washington, DC facility.
• Travel: Occasional travel to conferences and professional meetings, including potential presentations at events such as the Celestial Reference Frame Working Group or Cislunar Security Conference. Travel requires prior approval from USNO.

• Project Plan: Initial project plan outlining proposed work and schedule, presented in PowerPoint, PDF, or similar format.
• Monthly Reports: Summaries of monthly accomplishments and future plans delivered in Microsoft Word or PDF format.
• Final Report: Comprehensive final report detailing completed work, remaining tasks, and issues, to be delivered in a format agreed upon with the CRF Director.
• Residual Analysis: Any additional products resulting from the work to be submitted within 30 days of contract completion.

• Base
  
  Contract:
  
  500 hours of labor, 12-month performance period.
• Option 1: 500 hours of labor, 12-month performance period.

• $5,000 allocated for travel per base and option period.

This position offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and development in celestial reference frame management and space traffic coordination, supporting crucial DoD missions and national security objectives. If you meet the requirements and are passionate about advancing space observation and tracking technologies, we encourage you to apply.

(The right is reserved under provisions PL 93-638 Section (b), (f), (g), (i), 20 USD
450 Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1974 to give PREFERENCE AND OPPORTUNITY for employment, training, and contracts to Indians)