Deep space habitat prototype proposals sought by NASA
NewsApril 20, 2016
WASHINGTON. NASA officials are seeking proposals for the Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships-2 (NextSTEP-2) in support of the agency?s Journey to Mars mission. NextSTEP-2 requests industry proposals for concept studies and technology development projects in the areas of habitation, advanced propulsion, and small satellites.
NextSTEP is a public-private partnership model that seeks commercial development of deep space exploration capabilities to support more extensive human spaceflight missions in the proving ground of space around the moon and to enable transit to Mars. This model aids NASA in obtaining innovative concepts and also supports private industry commercialization plans for low-Earth orbit.
“NASA is increasingly embracing public-private partnerships to expand capabilities, and opportunities in space,” says Jason Crusan, director of NASA’s Advanced Exploration Systems (AES) Division, which sponsors NextSTEP.
The NextSTEP-2 solicitation is a follow-on to the NextSTEP Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) released in October 2014. It provides the opportunity for additional contractors to join those already under contract. Deadline for eligible applicants must submit proposals electronically by 5 p.m. EST on June 15. Notices of intent should be provided by 5 p.m. May 13.
During an industry forum on Monday, April 25, proposers will have a chance to ask questions and additional inquiries should be submitted in writing by Monday, May 2.
For more on information on the BAA, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/1WdhCG5. For additional information on NextSTEP BAA, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/nextstep.
