Notification ID: M2M-MSFC-0001
NAICS codes:
- 541715 – Research and development in the field of physical, engineering and biological sciences (except nanotechnology and biotechnology)
NASA is committed to developing industry architecture concepts, concept refinement studies, and risk mitigation activities that address Architecture from the Moon to Mars gaps in Next space technologies for research partnership-3 (NEXT STEP-3). NASA plans to publish this proposal—NextSTEP-3 Appendix B: Architectural Explorations from the Moon to Mars—closer to the beginning of the 2026 calendar year. Please refer to the links under the notice ID above for complete information.
NASA's Moon to Mars architecture defines the capabilities needed for long-term, human-led scientific discovery in deep space. The agency's architectural approach transforms agency-designed goals into capabilities and elements that support research and scientific goals. NASA continually advances this human exploration plan, putting humanity on the path to the Moon, Mars and beyond, collaborating with experts from industry, academia and the international community.
This proposed solicitation would involve partners on a regular basis, targeting several calls per year to submit proposals. Proposals must focus on topics related to infrastructure, transportation, housing, concepts of operations, and planetary science capabilities as defined in the latest edition Architecture Definition Document. The invitation establishes a flexible engagement strategy that takes into account both thematic calls on specific areas of government interest and calls on open topics.
NASA expects the first Appendix B case studies to focus on mission concepts to the Moon and Mars. NASA is set to issue a direct call for research into an integrated ground-based energy infrastructure (or grid) that could evolve to support increasingly ambitious lunar missions. (Note: This competition does not include proposals related to Surface Fission Energy System Announcement with Proposal for Partnership but may include all technology solutions including alternative fission, solar hybrid, or other grid approaches.)
At the same time, NASA will issue a direct call for the development of crew transportation concepts to Mars, trade studies, and identification of risk mitigation activities. This call will include space transportation, access to the surface of Mars, and Mars ascent options for crew and cargo.
