Artemis III Alternate Communication System

The Artemis III mission is adapting its Orion spacecraft configuration to address new communication demands arising from its revised trajectory through low Earth orbit, which has resulted in a reduced data rate for the primary communication system. To support critical mission phases such as rendezvous and docking, a secondary communications system is being developed and integrated to ensure the live transmission of 4K imagery and the reliable downlink of large data files during other flight segments. This secondary system must provide near-continuous communication capability with a return link bandwidth of at least 12 Mbps to meet operational requirements and maintain mission success under tighter data constraints. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Glenn Research Center has issued a forecast for the Artemis III Alternate Communication System under NAICS code 517810, indicating an upcoming procurement effort to identify and implement a suitable solution. The system will be specifically designed to complement the existing primary communication infrastructure and must function reliably in the challenging environment of lunar mission profiles. Point of contact for inquiries is Shanna DeLeon, with Robert E. Watts designated as the Small Business Specialist, ensuring opportunities for qualified small businesses to participate in the development and integration of this critical technology.