BlackSky Technology Inc. (NYSE: BKSY) received a multi-year, sole-source $99 million U.S. government IDIQ contract for advanced satellite capabilities, according to a company statement. The contract was awarded by the Air Force Research Laboratory.

The company received an initial $2 million to accelerate design of an advanced large aperture optical payload for Earth observation and space domain awareness platforms. The contract aims to develop commercial space-based intelligence capabilities distinct from BlackSky's current Gen-2 and Gen-3 monitoring systems.

"This award validates and leverages our investments in leap ahead space technologies that feature next generation space architectures as part of our long-term constellation roadmap," said Brian O'Toole, BlackSky CEO.

The contract is expected to advance innovations for optical imaging and support applications in high-cadence Earth monitoring and observing objects in low Earth, geostationary and cis-lunar orbits. The satellites developed under this contract are expected to operate as data storage and processing hubs compatible with on-orbit data centers.

BlackSky operates a satellite constellation and provides real-time imagery and analytics services. The Herndon, Virginia-based company serves U.S. and international government agencies and commercial customers through its BlackSky Spectra software platform and proprietary low earth orbit satellite constellation.

The new contract serves as part of a multi-year advanced technology development program separate from the company's future AROS broad area search system. Satellites developed under this effort are expected to integrate with current and future launch vehicles.