Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Destination Request for Information

NASA is issuing this Request for Information (RFI) to gather industry input that will shape its acquisition strategy for a new Low‑Earth‑Orbit (LEO) destination to replace the International Space Station. The effort is organized in three phases: Phase 1 will procure a NASA‑owned Core Module and develop two Commercial Modules (via partnership arrangements); Phase 2 will add market‑driven power and cooling capabilities; and Phase 3 will enable market‑driven expansion or free‑flight services. NASA seeks detailed ideas on the Core Module’s key functions, resources, and services that enable commercial modules, architectural features that promote commercial growth (including the feasibility of a shared “commercial bus”), and concepts for cost‑offset mechanisms (e.g., exchange of ISS crew seats, cargo up‑mass, or EXPRESS rack space for provider contributions to design, development, and testing). Respondents must address procurement timing (simultaneous vs. staggered RFP releases), preferred contract types and any prohibitions, risk/benefit analyses with mitigation strategies, investment and funding phasing, and transportation assumptions (cost environment, provider availability, flight cadence). The RFI is for planning only, does not constitute a solicitation, and responses must avoid proprietary or competition‑sensitive information. The response deadline is extended to 13 April 2026, 09:00 a.m. EDT.

Notice ID

58eedb90b5d34eed8d447e3adc781904

Solicitation Number

80JSC026LEODestinationRFI

NAICS Code

N/A

Classification Code

N/A