NASA released its final Request for Proposals on Friday, inviting companies to submit plans for a new generation of commercial space stations. The procurement is part of the agency’s planned transition from the International Space Station to commercial destinations in low Earth orbit.
NASA plans to award fixed-price contracts to multiple companies, with work assigned through subsequent task orders. The agency intends the contracts to support station development and certification, followed by services for continued research and exploration in low Earth orbit.
Under the planned structure, NASA can choose at least two contractors for early development. NASA would then hold a further competition to select one or more contractors for final design, testing and evaluation, certification and services.
Proposals are due Tuesday, Dec. 8. NASA expects to make contract awards in spring 2027.
The agency says it is looking for credible business plans and strong technical execution. It also wants participating companies to invest in destinations that can meet NASA’s needs while attracting other customers and developing markets of their own.
NASA plans to remain a customer in low Earth orbit rather than owning and operating the commercial systems itself. Under that model, companies would build, own and operate the stations, while NASA would purchase services needed for its science and research programs.
That approach is intended to support NASA’s commitment to continuous human activity in low Earth orbit as operations shift away from the International Space Station.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the agency is committed to sustaining an American presence in low Earth orbit after the ISS retires. He said NASA will continue to need facilities for research, technology development and crew training, as well as preparations for missions to the Moon and Mars.
NASA also wants companies to develop customers and markets beyond the agency. NASA says prospective operators should be prepared to serve the agency while building additional customer bases and markets.
The final solicitation follows a series of consultations between NASA and private industry. Building on its Ignition event earlier this year, the agency says it has regularly engaged companies as it shapes its future approach to low Earth orbit.
In March, NASA published two Requests for Information seeking industry views on both low Earth orbit destinations and transportation. Those requests were used to gather perspectives rather than solicit final contract proposals.
NASA then issued a draft Request for Proposals in July. An industry day and individual meetings followed, giving interested companies opportunities to review and comment on the agency’s planned acquisition approach before the final request was released.
Companies now have until Dec. 8 to submit proposals. NASA expects awards in spring 2027, when it plans to choose multiple contractors for early development.
A later competitive task order is planned for final design, testing and evaluation, certification and services from one or more contractors. NASA says one or more contractors could advance through that stage as the agency works toward a transition from the ISS to commercial stations.