Cold-Weather Enclosure and Environmental Protection

The contract is for the design, supply, and installation of specialized protective enclosures, heating systems, and snow shields to ensure Starlink equipment operates reliably under extreme Antarctic environmental conditions. The work must withstand intense cold, heavy snow accumulation, high winds, and prolonged periods of darkness, requiring robust engineering solutions that maintain optimal thermal regulation and physical protection for sensitive electronic components. All components must be engineered for long-term durability with minimal maintenance in one of the most hostile climates on Earth. The solicitation is classified as a subcontract under NAICS code 337990 and is managed by the National Science Foundation’s Division of Acquisition and Cooperative Support. Responses are due by July 29, 2026, with the posting date set for July 24, 2026. Performance of the work is tied to Alexandria, Virginia, though the actual equipment will be deployed in Antarctica. The contract emphasizes environmental resilience, technical precision, and logistical readiness to support critical communication infrastructure in remote polar regions.