How to bid on Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility Technologies with NASA

What NASA is buying and why it matters

NASA's Extravehicular Activity (EVA) and Human Surface Mobility (HSM) Program (EHP) is looking for partners to develop technologies for human space exploration. This includes innovations for spacewalks (extravehicular activity) and surface mobility on the Moon and eventually Mars.

The program aims to provide safe, reliable, and effective EVA and HSM capabilities for astronauts. Key areas of interest include exploration EVA suits (xEVA suits) and tools, Lunar Terrain Vehicles (LTV), and Pressurized Rovers (PR). NASA is particularly interested in technologies that can withstand harsh environments like lunar dust, radiation, and extreme temperatures, and that reduce risk for lunar surface systems.

Developing these capabilities will support NASA's Artemis missions, which aim to return humans to the Moon and establish a long-term presence. The knowledge gained will also be applied to future missions to Mars. This opportunity allows vendors to contribute to cutting-edge space exploration and develop technologies with potential terrestrial applications.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The deadline for responses to this partnering opportunity is January 16, 2027, at 5:00 PM ET. This date has been extended from a previous deadline.

Vendors are responsible for monitoring the official site for the release of any formal solicitation and subsequent amendments. It is crucial to download your own copy of all documents as they become available.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms with expertise in professional services, particularly those involved in advanced technology development, engineering, and manufacturing related to aerospace, robotics, materials science, and extreme environment systems.

Companies specializing in spacesuit design, lunar rover development, dust mitigation technologies, radiation shielding, thermal management systems, and related human-rated spaceflight hardware would find this relevant. NASA is seeking collaborators to advance lunar surface capabilities and reduce risks for their flight projects.

How to respond

To access the opportunity details, click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid.

You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents. However, for many bids, you can view information without an account. Specific export-controlled documents, like Appendix A - Lunar Dust level sensor and Effects on Surfaces (LDES), may require emailing the points of contact for access. Additionally, an EHP Technical Library is available, requiring Login.gov access, which contains further informational reference documents related to lunar human surface mobility.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Thoroughly review all available documentation, including any appendices and information in the EHP Technical Library. Understand NASA's specific technology goals, especially those related to overcoming environmental challenges like lunar dust, radiation, and extreme temperatures.

Clearly articulate how your proposed technologies or capabilities directly address the stated needs of the EVA and Human Surface Mobility Program. Highlight any prior experience with space-related projects, harsh environment engineering, or relevant advanced technology development.

Emphasize how your solutions can reduce risk and increase productivity for Artemis missions. If applicable, describe potential terrestrial applications of your technology, demonstrating broader impact and innovation.