This Government Contract opportunity from National Aeronautics And Space Administration was posted on May 18, 2026. The submission period has ended. Browse the details below for market research, or find similar active opportunities.

Top

Request for Information (RFI): Private Sector Partnerships in Astrobiology, Planetary Protection, and Space Biology

Closed

NNH26ZDA010LFederal

Submission Closed08/11/2026, 03:59:00 AM UTC

Contract Overview

Solicitation details, issuing organization, response deadlines, documents, and interested companies for this government contract opportunity.

Active Opportunities Like This One

NAICS: 54171

Federal

System Vicarious Calibration (SVC) of the NASA Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE) Ocean Color Instrument (OCI) Using HyperNAV

Solicitation # NASA-SVC-PACE-OCI

NASA Headquarters is seeking a firm-fixed-price contract for the sustained operation and maintenance of eight HyperNav hyperspectral radiometric systems. This effort supports the System Vicarious Calibration of the NASA Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem PACE Ocean Color Instrument. The scope includes conducting eight rotational 60-day deployments annually across sites in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Mo'orea, French Polynesia, maintaining the float fleet, and delivering daily SVC-qualified radiometric products to the NASA PACE Ocean Ecology Lab. The contractor is required to deliver a minimum of 160 quality-assured in-situ SVC observations over the period of performance. NASA intends to award this as a sole source contract to Oregon State University, citing their unique specialized knowledge and role as the developer of the HyperNav system. Performance will take place at the contractor's facility and at the deployment sites. Key deliverables include daily SVC measurements, annual progress reports, and a final scientific and technical report. Payment is structured around milestones, with 30 percent of the total price allocated to monthly operations and data delivery. The contract requires adherence to NIST SP 800-161 for IT security and compliance with the Federal Records Act and NASA's Open Science and Data Management Plan.

POSTED

DEADLINE

Pipeline Safety Research and Development (R&D) - Research Announcement 12

Solicitation # 693JK326RA001

The Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is soliciting applications for pipeline safety research projects under Research Announcement 12 (693JK326RA001). These projects will be funded through Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) on a fixed-price basis. The research focuses on five priority areas: Anomaly and Threat Detection, Liquid Leak Detection, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Repair and Rehabilitation, and Threat Prevention. A primary goal is to transition technologies from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 to TRL 6 or 7 through operational testing and validated performance results. Applicants must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and PHMSA's R&D Management Information System (MIS). Proposals are limited to 20 pages and are evaluated by a Merit Review Panel based on criteria including technical approach, team expertise, cost appropriateness, and technology transfer plans. A mandatory cost-share is required, with a minimum of 50 percent for technology development and 20 percent for knowledge development. Additionally, all awarded projects must establish a Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) including at least two academic representatives to review final reports. Full proposal packages must include Appendices A and B, along with six specific attachments, including a budget summary and a technical milestone schedule. All documents must be submitted in PDF format, except for the milestone schedule, which requires an editable Excel file. The deadline for electronic submission via the MIS portal is 5:00 p.m. EST on November 2, 2026. Payments are tied to the completion of project items as verified by a Technical Manager and Agreement Administrator.

693JK3 Acquisition Services Division

POSTED

DEADLINE

2026 Distributed Wind Turbine Competitiveness Improvement Project

Solicitation # RFX-2026-10008

The 2026 Distributed Wind Turbine Competitiveness Improvement Project (CIP), solicitation RFX-2026-10008, is a best-value selection effort managed by the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) for the Department of Energy. The project aims to enhance U.S. leadership in distributed energy by assisting domestic manufacturers in reducing the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) for wind turbines with a rated power of 1000 kW or smaller. The scope is divided into thirteen topic areas across three primary categories: wind turbine development, power electronics development, and common areas such as manufacturing process innovation, technology commercialization, and field validation. The project emphasizes increasing the number of certified turbines in the U.S. market and requires adherence to professional engineering standards, including ANSI/ACP 101-1-2021 for small turbines and UL electrical safety standards. Subcontracts will be awarded as Firm Fixed Price with Price Participation, with maximum award amounts ranging from 200,000 to 800,000 dollars depending on the topic area. The standard period of performance is twenty-one months, though field validation projects may extend up to sixty months. Evaluation is based on a combination of technical factors, team qualifications, and listing plans, with additional programmatic weight given to manufacturer, geographic, system configuration, topic, and turbine size diversity to ensure a balanced cohort of small American businesses. Eligible offerors must be U.S. companies performing work within the United States. Key administrative requirements include electronic invoicing via the NLR Accounts Payable office and strict adherence to DOE public affairs and classified information directives.

Llc - DOE Contractor Alliance For Energy Innovation

POSTED

DEADLINE

Chain Reaction Innovations - Energy Technology Innovation

Solicitation # 6-BB47-P-00203-00

The Chain Reaction Innovations program, managed by Argonne National Laboratory for the Department of Energy, is seeking innovators for its 2027 cohort to accelerate the commercialization of early-stage physical science and energy technology. This initiative embeds selected innovators within the laboratory for up to 24 months, providing access to specialized facilities, technical mentorship, and funding. Support is structured through a first-year ORISE fellowship, which includes a personal stipend, travel allowance, and health benefits, with the possibility of a second-year renewal based on a midpoint performance review. All participants must enter into a standard, non-negotiable Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) and obtain DOE approval for site access. Eligibility is limited to individuals who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents with at least five years of research and development experience; incorporated entities are prohibited from applying. Applicants are evaluated on their technical strength, entrepreneurial drive, the potential economic impact of their project concept, and the alignment of their technology with the DOE mission. Required application materials include a personal narrative, a technical vision, a business idea, a one-page resume, and a five-page technical deck, all submitted via the program's online portal. The program emphasizes high-impact innovations that enhance national, economic, and energy security.

Argonne National Labor - DOE Contractor

POSTED

DEADLINE

Announcement for Partnership Proposals: Atmospheric Exploration Observatory

Solicitation # NNH26ZDA015L

NASA Headquarters, through the Science Mission Directorate Earth Science Division, has issued solicitation NNH26ZDA015L as an Announcement for Partnership Proposals for the Atmospheric Exploration Observatory. The primary objective of this initiative is to establish innovative partnerships with external organizations to advance the commercial remote sensing industry and maximize the utility of NASA resources. The scope of work focuses on the completion of the former GeoCarb instrument, its integration with a spacecraft, subsequent launch, and ongoing operations. Selected partners will collaborate on the operation of the observatory and the sharing of unique atmospheric data, ensuring clear mutual benefits. Interested parties must submit their proposals by December 2, 2026, at 4:00 PM Eastern Standard Time. Full solicitation details and updates are managed through the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System, and all associated meetings and forums will be conducted virtually.

POSTED

DEADLINE

Solicitation # N0016425SC001

The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane) is utilizing a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) under solicitation N0016425SC001 to rapidly acquire innovative commercial products and services. The objective is to identify and integrate advanced technologies across three primary mission areas: Expeditionary Warfare, Strategic Missions, and Electromagnetic Warfare. This competitive, three-phased process consists of an initial Solution Brief, a Pitch session, and a final written proposal. Awards are issued on a fixed-price basis and may take the form of FAR-based contracts, Purchase Orders, Bailment Agreements, or prototype Other Transaction (OT) agreements. Specific Areas of Interest (AOIs) have been released for various high-priority projects, including the Miniature Aiming System (MAS) Machine Gun Optic, the Small Modular Optic and Laser Designator (SMOLDr), the Hypervelocity Improved Capability Assault Rifle (HICAR), the Modular Kinetic Lethal Drone (MKLD), and the Flyweight Assault Machine Gun (FAMG). These projects focus on enhancing lethality and readiness through advancements in electro-optic systems, man-portable belt-fed weapons, and autonomous loitering munitions. Successful completion of a prototype OT project, validated through milestones such as User Evaluation and Operational Testing, may lead to a follow-on production contract without further competition.

POSTED

DEADLINE

Research Opportunities for International Space Station (ISS) Utilization

Solicitation # 80JSC026ISSNRA

NASA Johnson Space Center is soliciting proposals under the open Research Opportunities for International Space Station (ISS) Utilization announcement, identified as 80JSC026ISSNRA, to advance exploration technology demonstration and enhance National Lab utilization on the ISS. Originally issued in November 2012, the notice remains open for submissions, with individual focus areas potentially having distinct deadlines. Proposals may be awarded through various mechanisms including commercial and non-commercial contracts, cooperative agreements, or grants, depending on the nature and scope of the project. The North American Industry Classification System code applicable is 54171, and performance is expected to occur in Houston, Texas. All responsible sources are eligible to submit offers, and there is no specific set-aside for small businesses or other categories. Applicants must register and monitor the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES) for the solicitation, amendments, and submission requirements, as it is the sole source for official documents. The primary point of contact is Colleen Corbett, with secondary support from Samuel Mcilvoy, and the Center Ombudsman provision under NASA Clause 1852.215-84 is in effect for dispute resolution.

NASA Johnson Space Center

POSTED

DEADLINE

Defense Innovation Unit Commercial Solutions Opening

Solicitation # HQ0845-20-S-C001

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is utilizing a streamlined Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to award funding agreements to traditional and nontraditional defense contractors for prototype projects. These projects aim to enhance military effectiveness and national security through the adoption of innovative commercial technologies, processes, or business practices. Awards are executed as Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) under the authority of 10 U.S.C. 2371b, allowing for an iterative prototyping process that includes concept demonstrations, pilots, and agile development. The procurement is administered by the DIU in coordination with the Washington Headquarters Service and the Army Contracting Command. The competitive process consists of three distinct phases: the submission of a Solution Brief in response to specific Areas of Interest (AOI), an invitation to a pitch session to demonstrate technical and business viability, and the submission of a full written proposal. Evaluation is based on the merit of the proposed concept, specifically focusing on relevance to the AOI, innovation, uniqueness, and technical feasibility. Eligible respondents must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM), possess a DUNS number, and be determined responsible by the Agreements Officer. While the government requires a total price proposal for the prototype project, the Agreements Officer will negotiate final terms, conditions, and payments directly with the selected company, including the potential consideration of company-proposed service or user license agreements.

Defense Innovation Unit

POSTED

DEADLINE

Washington Headquarters Services (WHS) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)

Solicitation # HQ0034259WHSCSO

The Washington Headquarters Services Acquisition Directorate, through its Emerging Capabilities and Defense Prototyping Division, is utilizing a Commercial Solutions Opening to accelerate the attainment of defense capabilities. This five-year solicitation seeks innovative commercial products, services, and technologies, including concept demonstrations, pilots, and agile development activities. The program operates by publishing specific Areas of Interest that solicit solutions from commercial entities, with a particular emphasis on engaging non-traditional defense contractors and small businesses. Awards are issued as Other Transaction agreements under authorities including 10 U.S.C. Section 3458 and 4022, meaning they are not governed by the Federal Acquisition Regulation, though they remain subject to federal law and specific non-negotiable terms. The competitive process is multi-phased, requiring the submission of unclassified solution briefs, pitches, and prototype proposals. Solution briefs are evaluated based on the solution concept and business viability, including the company's go-to-market strategy and fundraising history. Successful projects are determined by the Agreements Officer based on the achievement of key technical goals or success metrics. To be eligible for an award, companies must maintain active registration in the System for Award Management and the Wide Area Work Flow for invoicing. The government protects confidential commercial information and trade secrets under applicable federal laws and executive orders, while requiring offerors to identify any intellectual property restrictions associated with their proposed solutions.

Washington Headquarters Services

POSTED

DEADLINE

Request for Information (RFI) for Advancing Critical and Emerging Microelectronics Technologies

Solicitation # 26_04

Issued by Sandia National Laboratories under the Department of Energy, solicitation 26_04 is a Request for Information aimed at advancing critical and emerging microelectronics technologies to secure U.S. global leadership and strengthen the domestic semiconductor manufacturing supply chain. The initiative focuses on four primary priority areas: advanced semiconductor research and prototyping, including power electronics and 3D packaging; the application of artificial intelligence for microelectronics R&D, such as AI-driven autonomous agents and edge computing; the development of quantum technologies, including scalable quantum computing and sensing; and the commercialization of federally funded scientific innovations. Interested parties must submit a response in PDF or Word format, not exceeding five pages, by September 30, 2029. Submissions will be evaluated based on the relevance and completeness of the information, the clarity of the response, the respondent's technical understanding of the project goals, and their overall experience and qualifications. Primary points of contact for this effort are Ken Dean and Lauren Kemme.

POSTED

DEADLINE

LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC)

Solicitation # W911NF21S0009

The LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC), a partnership between the U.S. Army Research Office and the NSA's Laboratory for Physical Sciences, is soliciting research proposals to advance disruptive fundamental research in quantum information science and technology. The program focuses on qubit development for quantum computing and sensing, aiming to solve long-term challenges in qubit device physics, such as material selection, gate fidelity, and the operation of superconducting qubits. The LQC operates as a center without walls, fostering collaborative partnerships between academia, industry, FFRDCs, and government laboratories to build a future quantum workforce and create pathways for technology transition. Proposals are accepted in three categories: Incubator opportunities for single investigators or small groups to develop concepts; Collaboratory proposals for multi-sector teams to pursue proof-of-concept experiments over one to three years; and QuaCR Research Fellowships for U.S. citizen graduate and postdoctoral researchers. Eligible applicants include domestic and foreign institutions of higher education, nonprofits, and for-profit businesses. Awards are evaluated based on scientific and technical merit, potential contribution to quantum computing feasibility, investigator qualifications, and cost reasonableness. The current response deadline for submissions is April 30, 2027.

POSTED

DEADLINE

AFRL/RX Functional Materials Open BAA

Solicitation # FA8650-22-S-5002

The Air Force Research Laboratory Materials and Manufacturing Directorate is soliciting white papers and full proposals under Broad Agency Announcement FA8650-22-S-5002 to advance functional materials technologies. The program focuses on the full maturity spectrum from scientific discovery through transition into components and systems, with specific interests in Photonic Materials, including Optical Materials and Processes and Hardened Materials and Processing. The objective is to exploit innovative materials from academia, defense, and commercial sectors to enhance warfighting capabilities, specifically improving size, weight, and power characteristics. Total program funding is approximately 500 million dollars, with individual contract awards capped at 75 million dollars. The solicitation utilizes a two-step process requiring an initial white paper followed by a technical and cost proposal for selected offerors. Awards are anticipated to be Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts with periods of performance ranging from 12 to 72 months. Evaluation is based on peer or scientific review, agency importance, and funding availability, with technical merit as the primary priority. Due to the sensitive nature of the research, strict security requirements are in place, including a Security Risk Review to mitigate foreign influence, adherence to the AFRL Wright Research Site Security Requirements, and potential Secret level safeguarding as specified in DD Form 254. Deliverables include scientific and technical reports, proof-of-concepts, and prototype hardware or software.

FA8650 USAF Afmc Afrl Pzl Afrl/pzl

POSTED

8 months ago

DEADLINE

in about 2 years

AI Contract Overview

NASA has issued a Request for Information (RFI) under solicitation number NNH26ZDA010L to gather informal input from the private sector on potential partnerships in astrobiology, planetary protection, and space biology. This notice, posted on May 18, 2026, and open for responses until August 11, 2026, is not a solicitation for contracts, grants, or agreements, and NASA makes no commitment to act on any submissions. Respondents are encouraged to submit partnership ideas in key areas such as technology development, data analytics and AI, life detection and sample analysis, applied astrobiology, space biology, and communications outreach. All responses must be submitted electronically through the NSPIRES portal, and interested parties are responsible for monitoring the system for any amendments. The RFI does not require formal proposals, certifications, or cost estimates, and no evaluation factors, contracting clauses, or award mechanisms are in place. The primary point of contact for inquiries is Rebecca McCauley Rench at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and while no specific submission format or length restrictions are defined, responses are expected to be concise and delivered via standard electronic means, typically PDF. The NAICS code 54171 applies, and no set-aside or socioeconomic preferences are in effect. This RFI is strictly an exploratory tool to inform future planning and does not constitute a procurement action.

General Info

NASA seeks private sector input on astrobiology and space biology via RFI, no contract or funding guaranteed.

Agency

National Aeronautics And Space Administration → NASA Headquarters

NAICS

54171

Place of Performance

Washington, DC, USA

Set-Aside

NONE

Documents

NASA Astrobiology, Planetary Protection & Space Biology RFI

rfi

Low

AI Contract Breakdown

Uniform Contract Format

Timeline

PhaseClosed

PostedMay 18

special-notice

Response DeadlineAug 11

Deadline has passed

Submission Closed

08/11/2026, 03:59:00 AM UTC

Find active opportunities like this

Start your free trial to discover similar active contracts, track opportunities, and build proposals with AI assistance.

Organization & Contact Information

AgencyNational Aeronautics And Space Administration → NASA Headquarters

Contacts1 person available

OfficeWASHINGTON, DC, 20546, USA

Organization / AgencyNational Aeronautics And Space Administration → NASA Headquarters

Office AddressWASHINGTON, DC, 20546, USA

Contacts

Rebecca McCauley Rench

contact@example.gov

Full Description

On or after the release date of this special notice, a full copy of the Request for Information (RFI) may be downloaded from the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES) at https://nspires.nasaprs.com by searching on number “NNH26ZDA010L” or by using the direct link provided. It is the responsibility interested parties to monitor NSPIRES for amendments, if any. Interested parties also are responsible for downloading their own copy of the document(s) from NSPIRES.

This Science Mission Directorate’s RFI does not constitute a commitment, implied or otherwise, that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) will act on this matter. This notice is not a complete or verbatim summary of the RFI.

NASA has a long history of supporting astrobiology research through collaborations with universities, research institutions, and industry. Expanding partnerships with the private sector will enhance capabilities for future missions, technology development, and data analysis. Respondents may share potential partnership ideas in one or more of the following areas: technology development, data analytics and AI, life detection and sample analysis, applied astrobiology, planetary protection, space biology, communications and engagement, and other areas relevant to astrobiology, planetary protection, and space biology. Interested parties should download and carefully read the full copy of the RFI on NSPIRES. See also the attached PDF file of the text of an email to subscribers to NSIPIRES’s SMD list serv.