Muon Space just scored a $44.6 million contract to show how its satellites can do more than track wildfires—they could also fill critical gaps in military weather monitoring. The U.S. Space Force sees an opportunity : what starts as environmental observation could become a valuable tool for operations in the field.
The California-based small satellite manufacturer will demonstrate its dual-use environmental monitoring technology in orbit, blending commercial innovation with military applications. The contract was awarded under a phase 3 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, using a flexible Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreement that allows the government to quickly leverage commercial tech.
From wildfire monitoring to military weather intelligence
Muon Space originally developed its sensors to detect and track global wildfire activity. Partnering with the nonprofit Earth Fire Alliance, the company created the FireSat constellation—low-Earth orbit satellites designed to detect environmental hazards in near real-time.
But these sensors have more potential. Accurate cloud coverage and atmospheric data are vital for military operations, affecting everything from precision-guided munitions to reconnaissance and mission planning. The Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) once provided this capability, but its satellites are no longer operational. The Space Force is now exploring how commercial systems can fill that void while supplementing existing civilian sources.
The contract builds on a previous $2.9 million SBIR phase 2 deal that supported development of Muon’s multispectral infrared sensor, known as Quickbeam. This phase 3 agreement will expand the system’s use for both environmental monitoring and military weather support.
Leveraging commercial technology for defense
“By building on our existing FireSat commercial mission, we can deliver immediate operational value while proving scalability for future defense missions,” said Jonny Dyer, CEO of Muon Space.
Muon launched its first FireSat prototype in March 2025, and the first three operational satellites are scheduled for 2026. Under the new contract, three additional satellites will be launched to demonstrate capabilities specifically for the Space Systems Command.
These satellites will feature an upgraded Quickbeam payload, called Quickbeam-S. This version enhances spectral coverage and includes onboard processing designed to capture thermal and atmospheric conditions. According to Tracy Morgan, Muon Space’s VP of Growth, Quickbeam-S is a dual-use payload that serves military weather and oceanography needs while continuing to monitor wildfires globally.
A faster, more cost-effective path to deployment
The Space Force emphasized that leveraging commercial timelines and investments can accelerate satellite deployment while sharing costs with civilian applications. By using an existing commercial platform as a foundation, Muon can demonstrate operational performance in orbit without starting from scratch.
“This phase 3 award reflects our commitment to implementing the Space Force’s commercial space strategy, tapping into the speed, innovation, and capabilities of the private sector,” said Andy Betz, head of advanced programs at System Delta 810.
By integrating commercial innovation with defense needs, the initiative could provide the military with near-real-time environmental data, enhancing mission planning and operational readiness.
Looking ahead
As the FireSat constellation grows, Muon Space hopes to demonstrate that a single satellite system can serve both civilian and military purposes. The upgraded Quickbeam-S payload will provide detailed atmospheric and thermal data to support planning and operations while continuing to detect wildfires worldwide.
For the Space Force, this approach offers a flexible, dual-use solution—fast, cost-effective, and scalable. It could reshape how the military leverages commercial satellites for environmental monitoring, bridging gaps left by older systems and providing actionable data for real-world operations.
Muon Space’s collaboration with the Space Force underscores a broader trend : governments increasingly turning to commercial innovation to meet demanding operational needs. By combining existing commercial capabilities with targeted military applications, this project highlights how dual-use technology can accelerate progress, cut costs, and provide strategic advantages.
What do you think about using commercial satellites for military purposes ? Could dual-use technology like FireSat become the standard for future defense missions ? How do you feel about blending civilian innovation with military operations ? Do you think this approach could speed up deployment, reduce costs, or even change the way environmental monitoring is done worldwide ? Are there risks we should consider with dual-use satellites ?
Share your thoughts, experiences, or concerns, and join the conversation below. We’d love to hear your opinions on how commercial space technology can shape both defense and civilian applications in the coming years.
