Electro Optics Systems (EOS) Holding Ltd. has been awarded a $3 million Department of Defence Concept Technology Demonstrator (CTD) contract to demonstrate that its electro-optic space surveillance sensors integrate and operate effectively with existing space surveillance sensors. Based on laser and optical technology, the EOS sensors from 2005-2010 demonstrated all of the performance expected for next-generation space tracking requirements, except for operational cost-effectiveness and for the ability to operate with existing infrastructure. Since 2010, EOS has been engaged under Australia Space Research Program funding of $4.3 million to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of its sensors, principally through fully automated operation of those capable of long-range and accurate tracking, the company said. The operational extensions are expected to be completed in 2012. The contract now will require the sensors to be tested with existing space surveillance radars to establish that new sensors can operate effectively within existing tracking infrastructure, which represent an investment of many billions of dollars. The contract also will involve the expertise of EOS and its partner Northrop Grumman to examine how the Australian company’s sensors could be linked to US-based radar to track space objects more accurately and effectively than either system could achieve alone. EOS manufactures aerospace technology for a range of applications through two business divisions — military and space. For more information, visit: www.eos-aus.com