The RFI seeks to support NATO’s Alliance Persistent Surveillance from Space programme. 

NATO’s Communications and Information Agency (NCIA) has issued a request for information (RFI) to explore industry’s capability in creating an online Space Data Marketplace (SDM).   

Published on the NCIA website on 8 August, the call seeks to anticipate the creation of a platform to “rapidly request, compete and procure data and services” for space surveillance.  

The notice highlights the NCIA’s ambition to keep pace with developments in the commercial space sector, regarding its rapid growth, development, and participants.  

If created, the SDM would support NATO’s Alliance Persistent Surveillance from Space (APSS) programme, first launched in 2023.  

The APSS is a multi-year effort to blend existing national and commercial space capabilities into a virtual constellation called Aquila, to provide constant Earth observation intelligence. 

Alongside this, a potential SDM would inform wider requirements for NATO’s Space situational awareness programmes. 

In terms of capabilities, the NCIA is interested in hearing about web-based tools which can host competitions and awards, whilst also facilitating “the secure exchange, sharing, and monetisation of space-related data”. 

The notice also mentions that prospective solutions should be “day zero ready” with existing vendors, rather than under development.  

Proposals should also consider data quality metrics, ways to display the reliability and validity of the data on the marketplace, and a feedback mechanism for those who use the services held there. 

Importantly, a solution would need to ensure that all those with access to the marketplace are vetted to meet NATO compliance and security standards. 

Interested companies are required to submit their contributions by email. This includes a summary of their solution’s relevant capabilities, past performance, and cost details. 

A deadline of 8 September has been set for responses. 

After that point, the NCIA will use the RFI submissions to refine its requirements in accordance with industry’s capabilities, allowing it to inform a potential SDM tender.