NASA opens competition for commercial stations in low Earth orbit

NASA released its final request for proposals on October 9, 2026, inviting U.S. companies to develop commercial destinations in low Earth orbit (LEO) that could support astronauts after the International Space Station (ISS) retires. The solicitation aims to sustain a human presence in LEO for research, technology development, crew training, and preparation for missions to the Moon and Mars.

What NASA is asking companies to provide

The solicitation covers the full lifecycle of commercial destinations: design, construction, testing, certification, and operation, alongside destination and transportation services for human spaceflight. NASA plans to select two or more contractors for early development.

The agency describes the contracts as firm-fixed-price, multi-award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity agreements, commonly called IDIQ contracts. Under this structure, NASA can place orders through the contract; a later competitive task order is to cover final design, testing and evaluation, certification, and services.

Reported transportation terms and 2030 mission estimates

Under the reported terms, NASA would furnish transportation for the first four NASA service missions. Bidders reportedly do not need a signed transportation contract or letter of intent when they submit a proposal. That provision would let companies compete without first having a transportation agreement in hand.

Reported estimates for 2030 put one four-seat crew flight at $325 million and one cargo flight at $300 million. Both figures are mission estimates in U.S. dollars.

Proposal deadline and expected awards

NASA set December 8, 2026, as the proposal deadline and expects to make awards in spring 2027. The early-development selection is planned to include at least two contractors.