NASA · Space

NASA Seeks Proposals for Lunar Surface Technologies

NASA is soliciting proposals to advance technologies and infrastructure crucial for lunar exploration and establishing a base at the Moon's South Pole.

The initiative targets key capability gaps, including power generation, oxygen extraction from lunar regolith, and on-site material production for construction and operations.

These advancements are vital for long-term human presence on the Moon, aiming to reduce reliance on Earth-based resupply missions.

The NextSTEP-3 Broad Agency Announcement focuses on five areas: vertical solar array technology, in-situ resource utilization for oxygen production, radioisotope Stirling generators for power, advanced manufacturing in space, and innovative nanomaterials production.

NASA aims to foster U.S.-led capabilities through partnerships with industry, academia, and non-profit entities, including international partners on U.S.-led teams.

The agency may use insights from awarded contracts, such as technical data and demonstration results, to inform future acquisition strategies.

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