Bid guide

How to bid on Moon Base Demonstrations for NASA

National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationCloses August 24, 2026

What NASA is buying and why it matters

NASA is seeking industry-led demonstrations and special-topic activities to support the phased development of a Moon Base. This opportunity focuses on technologies at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 or higher, aiming to bridge the gap between technology development and mission operations.

The Moon Base, planned for the lunar South Pole region, will be a proving ground for deep space exploration, scientific discovery, and advanced space technologies. Industry partners will help address architectural gaps and reduce risks, providing knowledge for NASA's programmatic decisions and strategic exploration goals.

Key dates and deadlines

The deadline for white paper submissions is August 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM ET. This is the first step in a two-step proposal process. Questions regarding this solicitation were due by July 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM CT.

NASA is releasing responses to submitted questions in batches, and the white paper deadline was extended to allow offerors time to incorporate these responses into their submissions. Only invited proposers will be requested to submit a full project proposal after the white paper review.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms with established technologies at TRL 6 or higher, capable of contributing to lunar exploration and the development of a permanent Moon Base. NASA is looking for innovative ideas from industry partners.

The solicitation uses both Directed-Topic Calls, which guide industry partners on specific Moon Base objectives, and future Open-Topic Calls for broader innovative solutions. Firms with expertise in advanced space technologies and lunar mission support will find this relevant.

How to respond

To access the opportunity, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click leads to the homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view documents, though this is not always required.

The initial response is a white paper submission. Invited proposers will then be asked to submit a full project proposal. All questions were to be submitted electronically to [email protected], with a courtesy copy to [email protected].

Tips for a competitive response

Focus your white paper on clearly demonstrating how your proposed technology or activity meets TRL 6 or higher. Emphasize how your solution addresses specific architectural gaps or reduces risks for NASA's Moon Base objectives.

Given the two-step process, your white paper needs to be compelling enough to secure an invitation for a full proposal. Clearly articulate the innovation and direct relevance of your concept to the phased implementation of the Moon Base. Ensure your submission aligns with either the Directed-Topic Calls or clearly states its relevance for future Open-Topic Calls, avoiding concepts identical to Directed-Topic Calls if submitting under an Open-Topic.

See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond

Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.

View this bid on BiddingSimple

This guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from National Aeronautics and Space Administration; the original posting controls.