Trafficability Analysis for Lunar Robotic Systems

This contract seeks to evaluate the trafficability of lunar regolith terrain for robotic platforms, focusing on soil mechanics, mobility prediction, and path planning capabilities essential for safe and efficient surface operations. The work will involve analyzing the physical properties of lunar soil to assess how different robotic systems interact with the surface under low-gravity and abrasive conditions, enabling the development of advanced mobility models and navigation algorithms suited for the Moon’s unique environment. The project demands technical expertise in geotechnical engineering, robotic locomotion, and terrain modeling to produce validated predictions of vehicle performance across representative lunar landscapes. The solicitation is structured as a subcontract under a total small business set-aside, meaning only small business concerns are eligible to respond, and it falls under NAICS code 541620 for scientific and technical consulting services. It is managed by the NASA Shared Services Center on behalf of NASA, with a response deadline of May 21, 2026, and was posted on April 29, 2026. The performance location is not specified, suggesting work may be conducted remotely or at the offeror’s facility, with deliverables aligned with NASA’s lunar exploration objectives. There is no designated point of contact listed, and all inquiries must be handled through the official SAM.gov portal.