Bid guide
How to bid on NASA’s SPARC space nuclear systems contract
What NASA plans to buy
NASA plans a multiple-award contract for the design, development, testing, delivery, and ongoing support of space nuclear systems and related hardware, materials, and software. SPARC is intended to support future task orders, including work on the Lunar Reactor-1 system.
The first planned task order, LR-1 Phase 1, covers a preliminary design, an electrically heated integrated system test, and component-level radiation testing. This is a technically demanding opportunity for firms interested in space nuclear systems.
Key date and what happens next
NASA expects to issue the final RFP on or around November 20, 2026. The notice lists November 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET as the deadline.
This is a Sources Sought Notice, not the final RFP. Check SAM.gov for the final solicitation and its instructions; the final notice ID may change.
Who this opportunity may suit
SPARC may suit firms with relevant capabilities in space nuclear systems and the associated design, development, analysis, fabrication, assembly, verification, validation, testing, evaluation, certification, delivery, or sustaining operations.
The initial LR-1 task also points to work involving preliminary design, integrated system testing, and radiation exposure testing of components.
How to find the solicitation materials
Use the opportunity’s “View original source” option to open the notice. If the first click takes you to the portal homepage, click it again to go to the bid.
A free account may be needed to view documents, though some bids do not require one. NASA says the draft RFP posting on SAM.gov includes acquisition information, an Industry Day presentation, and questions and answers; review those materials to prepare for the final RFP.
How to prepare a strong response
Read the draft RFP and supporting materials closely, then compare their stated requirements with your firm’s capabilities. Track questions, assumptions, and information you need to verify when the final RFP is released.
For a response, organize your evidence around the work described: design maturity, test planning, component radiation testing, and the ability to support delivery and ongoing operations. Follow the final RFP’s instructions and deadlines once it is posted, and avoid relying on assumptions from the draft.
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 BiddingSimpleThis 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.