How to bid on Private Sector Partnerships in Astrobiology, Planetary Protection, and Space Biology with NASA

What NASA is buying and why it matters

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is seeking ideas from private companies for potential partnerships in astrobiology, planetary protection, and space biology. This is a Request for Information (RFI), meaning NASA is gathering input and not guaranteeing a contract.

NASA wants to expand its collaborations with the private sector to enhance future missions, technology development, and data analysis. They are interested in areas such as technology development, data analytics and AI, life detection and sample analysis, applied astrobiology, planetary protection, space biology, and communications.

This is an opportunity for businesses to share their expertise and potential contributions to NASA's scientific goals in these fields.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Request for Information was published on May 18, 2026. The deadline for responses is August 10, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.

All responses must be submitted by this deadline. Since this is an RFI, NASA will review the submitted ideas to inform their future planning, but there is no immediate contract award associated with this request.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for professional firms with expertise in astrobiology, planetary protection, space biology, technology development, data analytics, artificial intelligence, life detection, sample analysis, and related scientific or technical fields.

Companies that can offer innovative solutions or partnership models in these areas are encouraged to respond. This is particularly relevant for firms looking to collaborate with a federal agency on cutting-edge space science.

How to respond

To respond, you must first download the full Request for Information (RFI) document from the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES).

You can access the opportunity by clicking the "View original source" link. If you land on the portal's homepage, click the link again. You may need a free account to view the documents.

Once you have the RFI, carefully read all instructions and requirements for submitting your partnership ideas.

Practical tips for a competitive response

When preparing your response, clearly articulate your proposed partnership ideas and how they align with NASA's goals in astrobiology, planetary protection, or space biology. Be specific about the technologies, methodologies, or services you can offer.

Highlight your firm's relevant experience and capabilities. Even though this is an RFI, a well-structured and detailed response can make a strong impression and potentially lead to future opportunities.

Ensure your response addresses one or more of the specified areas of interest, such as technology development, data analytics and AI, life detection, or planetary protection. Demonstrate a clear understanding of the scientific context.