AFOSR - Engineering and Complex Systems ENGINEERING AND COMPLEX SYSTEMS (RTA1) The Engineering and Complex Systems team within the Engineering and Information Science Branch leads the discovery and development of the fundamental and integrated science that advances future air and space flight. The broad goal of the team is to discover and exploit the critical fundamental science and knowledge that will shape the future of aerospace sciences. A key emphasis is the establishment of the foundations necessary to advance the integration or convergence of the scientific disciplines critical to maintaining technological superiority. A wide range of fundamental research addressing electronics, fluid dynamics, materials, propulsion, and structural mechanics are brought together in an effort to increase performance and achieve unprecedented operational capability. The team carries out its ambitious mission through leadership of an international, highly diverse and multidisciplinary research community to discover, shape, and champion new scientific discoveries that will ensure novel innovations for the future U.S. Air Force and Space Force. The central research direction for this team focuses on meeting the basic research challenges related to future air and space flight by leading the discovery and development of fundamental science and engineering in the following research areas. The Engineering and Complex Systems (AFOSR/RTA1) Program Officers and topics are: Energetic Solid-State Physics and Mechanochemistry GHz-THz Electronics Energy, Combustion, and Non- Equilibrium Thermodynamics Aerodynamic Sciences High-Speed Aerodynamics Aerospace Composite Materials Multiscale Multifunctional Structures and Systems Propulsion and Power Agile Science for Test and Evaluation (T&E) Our research areas of interest are described in detail below: ENERGETIC SOLID-STATE PHYSICS AND MECHANOCHEMISTRY Program Description: The objective of this portfolio is to understand critical chemical and physical behaviors in solid-state energy systems that arise due to compositional complexity under far-from-equilibrium conditions for game-changing advancements in critical DoD expeditionary systems. Research supported by the portfolio will build the foundational scientific knowledge to understand chemistry and reaction dynamics in heterogenous solid materials, causal pathways for energy release in mechanochemically-stimulated systems, energy localization and the interplay between continuum-level phenomena and molecular evolution, and the implications of shock dynamics on local state property and chemical behaviors. Solutions will necessarily arise from combined efforts utilizing empirical, numerical, and theoretical treatments to interrogate these uncertainties. Basic science advances supported by this portfolio will transition scientific discoveries that will inform the development of the next generation of Department of the Air Force (DAF) solid-state energy systems with a focus on improved energy and power density, operational reliability, ruggedized response to insult, effect-based optimization, and understanding system behavior as a function of age and operating conditions. Basic Research Objectives: Research proposals are sought that endeavor to elucidate the mechanistic behaviors of energy systems that give rise to emergent property phenomena. Areas of focus include leveraging state-of-the-art capabilities in condensed matter spectroscopy and microscopy to achieve unparalleled resolution into the behavior of solids; advancing numerical techniques to interrogate poorly understood dynamic behaviors of solids under extreme temperatures and pressures; and developing solid-state energy systems with the intent to study the effects of local chemistry, fine-feature, and domain size on dynamic property behavior. Leveraging Solid-state Diagnostic Techniques Examples of research topics covered under this research focus include but are not limited to: attosecond physics observational techniques for solid-state systems, multi-wave mixing spectroscopy techniques for optically opaque systems, high-energy radiation microscopy and spectroscopy, in situ electron and neutron beam techniques, and any diagnostic technique that can causally relate the mechanical condition of a solid system to local chemical evolution. Advancing Numerical Science Examples of research topics covered under this research focus include but are not limited to: atomistic numerical techniques to understand non-equilibrium effects on reactive chemistry under high temperatures and pressures: physics-informed, lossless continuum level modeling techniques with vastly improved computational efficiency, converged physical and chemical models to describe energetic system response to insult, chemical kinetics-aware phase field modeling, ab initio modeling of path dependent reactive mixing in solids, and any non-traditional modeling technique that could be used to study the coupling of chemistry and physics in energetically evolving solid-state systems. Developing Energetic Model Systems Examples of research topics covered under this research focus include but are not limited to: substances that exhibit chemistry-decoupled energetic behavior, materials with highly non-linear and thermodynamically complex chemical evolution pathways, simplified and instrumentally accessible systems to facilitate understanding of relevant dynamic energetic solids, novel demonstrations of energy system fabrication processes that allow for atomic precision in the distribution of reducing and oxidizing species, material systems that can be used to study how cycle fatigue and age affect energetic solid performance, any model material system that, through observation, improves the current understanding of mechanochemical coupling. You are highly encouraged to contact our Program Officer prior to developing a full proposal. Aspiring PIs are strongly recommended to carefully read the program BAA and develop a short summary to explain the basic science questions under contention, the current state-of-the-art, how your research would advance it, and the approximate cost for a three (3) to five (5) year effort. The optimal time frame for inquiring about portfolio needs is November-April, but prospective PIs are invited to reach out during any time of the year. CAPT DEREK BARBEE, AFOSR/RTA1 Email: dynamicmaterials@us.af.mil GHz-THz ELECTRONICS Program Description: This program seeks scientific breakthroughs in materials, heterostructures, and devices that can lead to game-changing capabilities in digital electronics, RF sensing and amplification, transmit/receive functions, wideband operation, and novel functionalities. The primary frequencies of interest are GHz and THz. Basic Research Objectives: The focus of the portfolio is on fundamental interactions of electrons and quasiparticles with each other and their host materials and structures. Technical challenges include understanding and controlling (1) interactions between particles/quasiparticles and host lattices, boundaries, and defects, including effects of temperature, radiation, and time; (2) conventional, superconducting, or spin transport and effects of various fields and device configurations Efficiency, volume, speed, power, temperature of operation, and reliability are important figures of merit. It is expected to understand well various new phenomena and devices, novel techniques to study and control nanoscale composition and structures, defects, and operations may be required. The program emphasizes experiments and supports theory and modeling. Proposers are highly encouraged to contact the Program Officer prior to developing a white paper or proposal, preferably by email, to discuss the current state of understanding, how your research would advance it, and the approximate cost of a three (3) to five (5) year effort. DR. MICHAEL YAKES, AFOSR/RTA1 Email: ghz.thz@us.af.mil ENERGY, COMBUSTION AND NON-EQUILIBRIUM THERMODYNAMICS Program Description: Majority of Air and Space Forces’ system functions rely on the chemical energy stored in energetic molecules, converted into relevant forms, such as momentum through the combustion for propulsion and electricity from the electrochemical process for information processing, system control, direct energy weapon etc. The program supports efforts to explore, understand, describe, simulate/model, and manipulate/control key underlying physical and chemical phenomena/processes in energy supply and conversion, fostering innovative/ unconventional thinking, leading to game-changing capabilities as well as helping with current urgent needs for Air and Space Forces. Basic Research Objectives: This program seeks broad ranges of basic scientific understanding and knowledge of energy storage and conversion, including but not limited to the four following focused areas: Non-Equilibrium and Ultra-Fast Energy Conversion: detonation and other forms of locally controlled and compact combustion; non-equilibrium/ high- temperature combustion chemistry, ultra-fast electric energy release and delivery mechanism; non-equilibrium electrochemical and related physical processes, especially relevant to SEI, direct-conversion from chemical to mechanical energy; new space energy cycle/ concept, non-equilibrium energy-information relation; etc. Multi-Functional and Unconventional Energy Storing Molecules, Materials and Processes: endothermic fuels and propellants; molecules, materials and chemical processes functioning thermochemically, electrochemically, and possibly structurally; sodium based and other unconventional battery chemistry/physics with geo-political and cost advantages; safe battery chemistry/physics for aviation and space exploration, including solid electrolytes, etc. Phase-Transition of Multi-Component Mixtures: Most Air and Space Forces’ energy systems involve the phase-transition of multi-component fluids with many unknows. These phase-transition behaviors are governed by the intermolecular force and interaction. The objective here is to understand and characterize the underlying molecular interactions for the multicomponent phase transition to explore vast potentials in energy and material sciences by manipulating and controlling these underlying molecular interactions. Diagnostics, Simulation/Modeling and Data Sciences for Energy Research: including approaches and methods across large-scale ranges, with ultra-high local temporal and spatial resolutions to probe, understand and describe underlying energy-related physics and chemical processes mentioned above, particularly in multi-phase regimes; diagnostics: insidious pressure measurements, x-ray based spectroscopy with special interests in x-ray CARS (joint interest with Dynamic Material Interaction program); simulation and modeling: first principle-based multi-physics simulations with special interests in the local refinement and phenomenon capture; advancing data-assimilation science with the focus of using combinations of the data and simulation/modeling to deepen the understanding of the underlying physics and chemistry. Proposers are highly encouraged to contact the Program Officer prior to developing a full proposal, preferably by email, to discuss the current state of understanding, how the research would advance it, the approximate cost for a three (3) to five (5) year effort, and if there are any specific submission target dates. DR. CHIPING LI, AFOSR/RTA1 Email: energy@us.af.mil AERODYNAMICS SCIENCES Program Description: The Aerodynamic Sciences portfolio supports basic research of fundamental flowfield physics across a range of conditions. Greater understanding of the fundamentals of the flowfield physics is crucial for exploitation into air vehicle performance gains relevant to the USAF. The portfolio is interested in aerodynamic flowfields arising in both internal and external configurations and extending over a wide range of Reynolds numbers. The portfolio seeks to emphasizes the characterization, modeling, prediction, and control of flow instabilities, turbulent flows, and aerodynamic fluid-structure/material interactions. A focus on the understanding of the fundamental flow physics, the dynamics and control of aerodynamic shear flows, and interactions of these flows with rigid and flexible surfaces in motion is motivated by an interest in developing physics based predictive models and innovative control concepts for these flows. Basic Research Objectives: Research in this portfolio is focused on a variety of topics including fluid-structure/material interactions, vortex dominated flows, free and wall-bounded shear layer flows, time-dependent flows, and transitional & turbulent flows. Greater understanding of these and related topics will lead to improved air vehicle performance relevant to USAF air vehicle configurations. The portfolio maintains an interest in the dynamic interaction between steady & unsteady fluid motion, linear & nonlinear structural deformations, and aerodynamic control effectors for a wide range of flight regimes. The portfolio seeks to advance fundamental understanding of complex aerodynamic flowfield phenomena through integration of theoretical, numerical, and experimental approaches. Research incorporating these elements that improve understanding of these complex flows are strongly encouraged. Flowfield studies are expected to involve an approach based on fundamental insight into the dynamics of such flows. In cases where that insight may not exist, studies examining fundamental flow physics with a path to enabling control of the flow may be of interest. Flow control efforts integrating modeling, control theory, and advanced sensor and/or actuator technology for application to a flow of interest are also encouraged. Note that basic research of the variety typically funded by the portfolio may not yet have a clear transition path to an application, but nevertheless should be relevant to U.S. Air Force interests. Proposers are highly encouraged to contact the Program Officer via email prior to developing a full proposal to discuss the current state of the art in their area of interest, how the proposed research would advance it, the approximate cost for a three (3) year effort, and if there are any specific submission target dates. DR. GREGG ABATE, AFOSR/RTA1 Email: aerodynamics@us.af.mil HIGH-SPEED AERODYNAMICS Program Description: The flow field around a high-speed vehicle strongly influences its size, weight, lift, drag and heating loads. Therefore, research in this area is critical to the U.S. Air and Space Force’s interest in rapid global and regional response and space operations. This portfolio aims to lay the scientific foundation, through discovery, characterization, prediction and understanding of critical phenomena, for game- changing advancements in our understanding of high-speed, high-temperature non- equilibrium flows around flying vehicles. External and internal transitional and turbulent wall-bounded flows are critical to the cadre of problems studied. Such understanding is a pre-requisite to making hypersonic flight routine. Basic Research Objectives: Proposals are encouraged which leverage recent breakthroughs in other scientific disciplines and foster rapid research advancements in high-speed aerodynamics. It is encouraged that proposed efforts contain a balanced combination of experiments, computations and theoretical efforts. Flight experiments may be sought for obtaining data that cannot be obtained in ground facilities or by state-of-the-art computations. For any experiments proposed, explain how they capture the most sensitive variables for the problem being studied and how they can be used for validation of numerical models or to enhance our understanding of the current gaps in our knowledge of physical processes. The development of new tools and measurement techniques that are necessary to enhance these studies will be considered, but should not be the focal point of a proposed effort. For any numerical efforts explain which variables are the hardest to accurately predict and how the results will be validated with relevant measurements. All proposal submissions should be driven by a gap in our scientific understanding of high-speed flow phenomenology with carefully identified approaches to closing that gap. Efforts studying the multi-physics or interaction aspects of these flow phenomena are encouraged to include sensitivity analysis to help determine the dominant physical parameters and mechanisms involved. Innovative research is sought in all aspects of high Mach number (preferably M>2), high temperature, non-equilibrium flows with particular interest in (not in order of priority): Turbulence and transition – development, structure and growth, unsteady flow field characterization, – initial value and eigenvalue approaches for transition prediction, reduced-order models/transport equations for implementation of transition prediction into RANS codes, WMLES approaches, and stability analysis for different modes and multimode transition. Enhanced understanding of high-enthalpy/thermochemical nonequilibrium effects Enhanced understanding of the effects of turbulence/particles in free stream, wall roughness, surface discontinuities (steps and gaps), curvature, angle of attack, etc. on this process are desired Enhanced understanding of the physical processes that either promote or delay transition and/or shock unsteadiness in high-speed environments to provide possible avenues of mechanism-based flow control Enhanced understanding of other topics identified in transition-modeling/prediction workshops, such as NASA TM-20240005810 Fluid-thermal-structure interactions at hypervelocity conditions to include both relevant heating, freestream disturbance environments, and structural boundary conditions Development of physics-based models for air ro-vibrational-dissociation and ro- vibrational-translational processes that can be incorporated in CFD solvers without incurring orders of magnitude more time to solve a given problem. Experiments to validate the above models are also sought. Characterization of fundamental processes occurring between non-equilibrium flows and reacting surfaces, as well as other ceramic or metallic materials utilized in high-speed flows Characterization of naturally occurring atmospheric phenomenology in at high altitudes, receptivity of the flow field to these disturbances, and their effects on high-speed aerodynamics Energy transfer mechanisms within high enthalpy flows Flight experiments to realize basic science advancement in any of the above areas might be sought. Ideas that don’t strictly fall into the categories above, but are germane to high-speed aerodynamics, are also welcome. You are highly encouraged to contact our Program Officer prior to developing a full proposal, in any sub-area, to briefly discuss the current state-of-the-art, how your research would advance it, and the approximate cost for a three (3) to four (4) year effort. DR. AMANDA CHOU, AFOSR/RTA1 Email: aerothermodynamics@us.af.mil AEROSPACE COMPOSITE MATERIALS Program Description: This program supports basic research in the design, processing, and characterization of novel composite materials to enable transformative enhancement in their performance through understanding of the chemistry, physics, and mechanics in heterogeneously structured materials. Such materials are aimed to significantly impact the structural design of future U.S. Air Force and Space Force platforms including airframes, space vehicles, satellites, and a multitude of load- bearing systems. Key scientific areas supported by the program include: materials discovery, collective phenomena in heterogeneous materials, interface science, process control, and architecture design tools for composite materials. Basic Research Objectives: Proposals are sought to advance the understanding of heterogeneously structured materials and the ability to conceptualize novel materials with collective properties not achievable in monolithic materials. Among the routes to achieving game-changing improvements in compositionally and topologically optimized materials, current emphases within the program are: (1) advanced materials with exceptional temperature capabilities; (2) design and processing of configurationally complex materials with controlled disorder; (3) understanding of interfacial phenomenon in heterogeneous systems; (4) concepts for integrated functionalities on the material level; and 5) computation and characterization methodologies to interrogate the behavior of heterogeneous materials in harsh environments. On materials discovery, the priority is placed on high temperature capabilities in polymer resin, fibers/coatings/reinforcements, and ceramics. Potential approaches include, but are not limited to, new chemistry, processing methodology, and novel microstructural configuration by design. The utilization of topological arrangement (phase distribution on nano- to micro-scale), phase transformation, coupling effects, and material texture to optimize macroscopic properties is of interest. Topics of interest on materials processing include, but are not limited to, dynamic covalent polymers, polymer-derived ceramics, organic-inorganic hybrids, and field-assisted sintering. The proposed research must be based on fundamental understanding of the chemistry, thermodynamics, reaction mechanisms and kinetics, short- and long-range coupling, and/or structure-property relationships of the candidate materials. Metal- based materials, while not excluded, are not a priority for the program. The understanding of the interface is important in heterogeneously structured materials. Research emphasis is on the intrinsic properties, time-dependent microstructural evolution, as well as nanomechanical and chemical interactions at the reinforcement-matrix interface. The incorporation of coating or interphase materials to manipulate interfacial characteristics for optimal collective behavior is also of interest. Innovative concepts to incorporate additional functionalities in a structural composite material via hierarchical design and materials hybridization are of interest to the program. The functionalities may include, but are not limited to, acoustic, thermal, electrical, and electromagnetic properties. The research concept must show synergistic interactions between functional constituents. Note the emphasis is on the exploitation of heterogeneity and intrinsic properties of the constituent materials, not on the design of devices. Research ideas on computational modeling that aims to understand and predict the behavior of topologically complex materials in harsh environments are sought. Concepts to elucidate and mitigate material degradation under ablative, plasma-rich, oxidative, and/or space radiation-present conditions are of particular interest. Experimental validation of the computational results is highly desirable. Advanced characterization techniques capable of isolating and quantifying material response on proper spatial and time scales are also of interest to the program. You are highly encouraged to contact the Program Officer prior to developing a full proposal to discuss the current state-of-the-art how your research would advance it, and any submission target dates. To initiate the discussion, submit via email a short research summary that describes the fundamental science to be investigated. Alternatively, you may submit pre-proposal that describes research concept, objective and approach, scientific significance, and the expected outcome. The pre-proposal is limited to two pages (text and legible graphics). A short budget statement on the approximate cost for a three (3) to five (5) year effort must be provided. A third page containing key references may be included. Presentation viewgraphs are not an acceptable form of pre-proposal. The research focus must be on fundamental science and not on solving an engineering problem. If the concept is considered of interest to the Aerospace Composite Materials program and funding is available, an invitation to submit a full proposal submission may be extended. CAPT DEREK BARBEE, AFOSR/RTA1 Email: ACMaterials@us.af.mil MULTISCALE MULTIFUNCTIONAL STRUCTURES AND SYSTEMS Program Description: The main goals of this research program are to integrate newly emerging classes of structural load carrying materials, novel functional material systems or devices, programmable meta-architectures, intelligent subsystems, multiscale composite interfaces, stimuli responsive surfaces, and their combinations into load-carrying and/or multifunctional structures to achieve unprecedented US Air Force and Space Force system performance. The program seeks to establish fundamental understanding required to revolutionize functionality of new aerospace materials and structures to implement futuristic concepts of multi-scale structural design based on multi-physics models, additive and convergent manufacture for hybrid systems, and autonomous life cycle management for diagnosis/self-learning/prognosis. Basic Research Objectives: The program seeks the fundamental understanding of critical science issues for the development of the next generation aerospace vehicle structures by establishing theoretical models, physical models, analytical tools, numerical codes, and predictive methodologies. The program promotes basic research which aims to conceive and implement new structural and/or material concepts for revolutionary improvement of performance for future US Air Force and Space Force platforms. This includes the design, processing, and integration of emerging classes of materials, microsystems, subsystems, interfaces, and surfaces into load-carrying and/or multifunctional structures. Multifunctionality refers to coupling structural performance and as-needed novel functionalities (such as electrical, magnetic, optical, thermal, chemical, biological) to deliver significant improvements in system-level efficiency. The various visionary concepts for developing multifunctionality include: “autonomic” structures which can sense, diagnose, and respond for adjustment with minimum external intervention and self-learning capabilities, “adaptive” structures which allow for the reconfiguration or readjustment of shape, functionality, and/or mechanical properties on demand, and “self-sustaining” systems which enable self-healing, regeneration, structural remodeling, self-strengthening, and/or self-regulating thermal management capabilities with structurally integrated power sources. The program focuses on new structural load carrying materials, novel functional material systems or devices, programmable meta-architectures, intelligent subsystems, multiscale composite interfaces, stimuli responsive surfaces, and combinations thereof enabling macroscale multifunctionality of structures at advanced levels. The design and evaluation of such multifunctional structures need to be carried out at multiple scales from atoms to continuum to achieve unprecedented system performance. The radical performance sought may require combining several scientific disciplines beyond multiscale mechanics. When subjected to a variety of multi-physics environments such as thermo-mechanical, electrical, or magnetic fields, load-carrying and/or multifunctional structures will undergo complex changes in their states and physical properties. In this respect, robust multi-scale, multi-physics modeling and simulation capabilities become critical for unraveling the key scientific underpinnings to facilitate effective material design for novel multifunctionality and improved durability and reliability of structures in harsh operating environments. This will be a critical step towards rapid certification of safer, more maneuverable aerospace flight structures under non-stationary conditions and extreme environments. Critical, high-risk research opportunities include but are not limited to: multiscale/multiphysics characterization and modeling (spatial and temporal) of structural behavior, failure mechanisms, damage tolerance, and life prediction of aerospace structures in extreme/combined loading environments (mechanical, acoustic, thermal, inertial, etc.); non-conventional fabrication of structural components via the integration of dissimilar materials (metallic, ceramic, polymer composites, etc.; functionally graded; passive, active, responsive, adaptive, programmable, etc.; metamaterials; synthetic biomolecules; additive and convergent manufacture) into hybrid structures with multi-material joints and/or multiscale composite interfaces; multifunctional structures integrated with emerging classes of structural load carrying materials, novel functional material systems or devices (e.g. sensors, actuators, RF, energetics, heat exchangers, batteries, etc.), programmable meta-architectures, stimuli responsive surfaces, and intelligent subsystems; emerging computing architectures and artificial intelligence (AI) applied to multifunctional structures to explore properties of novel applications, such as “autonomic” systems which can sense, diagnose, and respond for adjustment with self-learning capabilities; consolidating the “sense-assess-respond” feedback loop through novel material-structure-system integration/distribution relying on materials-aware information theory and network science, surrogate modeling for coupled-physics phenomena, and inverse materials design optimization; revolutionary structural concepts involving novel topologies across scales, controlled-flexibility distributed-actuation, unprecedented flight configurations from morphing of shape, size or local properties of structural components, and self-repair/self-healing/regeneration capabilities; nonlinear dynamics and vibration control of functionally graded hybrid structures and materials under extreme or combined loading conditions; innovative measurement, control, and experimentation techniques of structural components. Researchers are highly encouraged to contact the Program Officer prior to developing a full proposal to briefly discuss the current state-of-the-art, how the proposed research would advance it, the approximate cost for a three (3) to five (5) year effort, and if there are any specific submission target dates. DR. GREGG ABATE, AFOSR/RTA1 Email: structural.mech@us.af.mil PROPULSION AND POWER Program Description: The Propulsion and Power Portfolio seeks to expand fundamental science discovery and innovation to enable enhanced maneuver and power capabilities across the aerospace domain. Technology areas served by this portfolio are prioritized towards reaction mass propulsion systems (both electric propulsion and chemical propulsion) and related power storage and delivery systems. In addition to improving traditional performance metrics, foundational insights and research methodologies derived from this portfolio may impact future capabilities such as improved lifetime assessment, enhanced robustness across performance envelopes, and faster deployment of new technologies. Basic Research Objectives: Top level research objectives of interest include, but are not limited to: Dynamics and Stability - understanding of the conversion of energy to momentum at appropriate timescales is essential to controlling/leveraging coupled nonlinear processes essential to many propulsion systems. The complexity of this objective is only increased by the intimate coupling of non-equilibrium and multiscale processes (including emergent structures) to observed dynamical behavior in areas such as partially magnetized plasma transport and liquid rocket combustion instability. Nonthermal energy addition – understanding of the focused delivery of electrical energy to selected finite rate reaction pathways is critical to faster, more repeatable, more energetically efficient ionization and ignition processes such as in the context of effective utilization of lightweight molecular propellants in plasma systems and improved control of energetic chemical systems. Coupled boundary processes - understanding of nonequilibrium plasma/chemical interactions at material interfaces underpins future concepts for both passive (low wall erosion, high temperature/oxidation resistance) and active (controllable ion/electron extraction, electrochemistry) system boundary design. This research objective includes exploration of robust multifunctional materials critical to the design of resilient, high performance aerospace systems. In addition, a strong emphasis is placed on leveraging the rapidly changing external technology landscape (power electronics/edge computing/advanced materials/algorithms/high speed datastreams) to motivate new exploration and fundamentally accelerate the rate of knowledge generation. A common product of this portfolio is the rapid development of improved quantitative descriptions for relevant physical processes. An enormous range of theoretical, experimental, numerical, and data-driven research approaches are relevant to studying these areas of interest; however, successful investigations are most likely through close coupling of multiple research approaches. Furthermore, given the fundamentally interdisciplinary nature of this portfolio, major opportunities for innovation exist through collaboration with researchers from outside this portfolio. Researchers should also consult the programs in Energy, Combustion and Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics, High-Energy Radiation-Matter Systems, Aerospace Materials for Extreme Environments, Molecular Dynamics and Theoretical Chemistry, Dynamic Data and Information Processing, Computational Mathematics, and other programs as described in this announcement to find the best match for the research in question. Proposers are strongly encouraged to contact the Program Officer prior to developing a full proposal to discuss its relationship to this basic research portfolio, specific details/innovations of the proposed research strategy in the context of the current state of understanding in this field, the approximate cost for a three (3) to five (5) year effort, and if there are any specific submission target dates. Collaborative efforts with the Air Force Research Laboratory are encouraged, but not required. DR. JUSTIN KOO, AFOSR/RTA1 Email: space.power@us.af.mil AGILE SCIENCE FOR TEST AND EVALUATION (T&E) Program Description: The Agile Science for Test and Evaluation (T&E) program supports basic research inventing and innovating revolutionary capabilities responsive to the Air Force and Space Force T&E community. Crossing scientific frontiers necessitates enhancing and pioneering test and measurement capabilities. The program sponsors basic research in areas enabling metrology and facilitating correct and comprehensive interpretation of test information. Agile science of test and evaluation leads to improving the ability to analyze and model operational environments, pursue science discoveries, and accelerate research & acquisition. The AFOSR T&E program encompasses three (3) broadly-defined, overlapping thrust areas: Autonomy, Hypersonics, and Cyber & Microelectronics. The Program is closely aligned with other AFOSR science areas advancing experimental methodologies and merging scientific disciplines. Basic Research Objectives: The AFOSR T&E program is closely engaged with technical experts at the Air Force Test Center (AFTC) organizations including Arnold, Edwards, Eglin and Holloman Air Force Bases, who help guide the program on basic research objectives. Basic research in areas that advance the science of testing is broadly defined and spans mathematics as well as most disciplines in engineering and the physical sciences. Areas include, but are not limited to: Novel measurement techniques, materials, and instruments that enable accurate, rapid, and reliable test data collection of physical, chemical, mechanical, and flow parameters in extreme environments, such as those encountered during transonic flight, hypersonic flight, and the terminal portion of weapons engagement; Accurate, fast, robust, integrable models reducing requirements to test or help provide greater understanding of test results; Advanced algorithms and computational evaluation techniques that are applicable to new generations of computers, including massively parallel, quantum, and neuromorphic machines; Advanced algorithms and test techniques that allow rapid and accurate assessment of devices and methods to cyber vulnerability; New processes and devices that increase bandwidth utilization and allow rapid, secure transfer of test data to control facilities during test; Advanced mathematical techniques that improve design of experiment or facilitate confident comparison of similar but disparate tests; Advanced models of test equipment and processes that improve test reliability and efficiency; New or advanced science that enable revolutionary test and measurement; Basic research in other T&E areas that advances the science of test and contributes to the development of knowledge, skills, and abilities for the AF T&E community. You are highly encouraged to contact our Program Officer prior to developing full proposals to briefly discuss program alignment. You should be prepared to explain why your proposed effort should be considered basic research, how it is unique to Test Science, and demonstrate an awareness of the Air Force and Space Force T&E process. Collaborative efforts with the Air Force Test Center and Air Force Research Laboratory are encouraged, but not required. DR. BRETT POKINES, AFOSR/RTA1 Email: tande@us.af.mil