In-Space Manufacturing and Materials Development

The contract seeks to advance the frontiers of in-space manufacturing and materials science by supporting research and development of innovative materials and processes tailored for operation beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Priority areas include the creation of self-assembling structures capable of autonomous configuration in microgravity, the formulation of radiation-resistant compounds to shield systems and personnel from cosmic and solar radiation, and the refinement of additive manufacturing techniques optimized for zero-gravity environments. These efforts aim to enable sustainable, scalable, and autonomous infrastructure capable of supporting long-duration space missions, lunar bases, and future deep-space exploration. This subcontract opportunity, issued by NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate, invites qualified entities to propose solutions aligned with NAICS code 541715, which covers research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences. The solicitation was posted on July 1, 2026, with a response deadline of August 13, 2026. Although specific performance location and point of contact details are not provided, the work is expected to directly support NASA’s mission to develop in-space capabilities that reduce reliance on Earth-based logistics and enhance mission resilience. Proposals must demonstrate technical feasibility, scalability, and alignment with operational requirements for extraterrestrial environments.