NASA is planning to procure a high-performance Mars telecommunications orbiter for the Mars Telecommunications Network (MTN) program. The work involves the design, development, integration, launch, and on-orbit operations of the orbiter to support Mars sample return and future exploration missions. The procurement is governed by a specific statute, 51 U.S.C. § 20306, which mandates a competitively bid, firm fixed-price contract with a U.S. commercial provider. Potential offerors are encouraged to submit optional feedback on the provided objectives and requirements document, with responses due by 2:00 PM EST on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. The associated NAICS code is 517410 with a size standard of $44 million.

NASA plans to compete a contract for a high-performance Mars telecommunications orbiter, known as the Mars Telecommunications Network (MTN), for design, development, launch, and operations. The program is supported by a specific statutory provision, 51 U.S.C. § 20306, which mandates a competitively bid, firm fixed-price contract. A Draft RFP is forthcoming, and NASA is currently providing an objectives and requirements document for optional industry review and comment. Potential offerors are encouraged to submit nonbinding informational submissions and feedback on the document, with responses due by 2:00 PM EST on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. The NAICS code is 517410 with a size standard of $44 million.

NASA is planning to compete a contract for the design, development, integration, launch, and operations of a high-performance Mars telecommunications orbiter, known as the Mars Telecommunications Network (MTN). The orbiter is intended to provide robust communications for a Mars sample return mission and future exploration. The associated size standard for the NAICS code 517410 is $44 million. Potential offerors are encouraged to submit optional feedback on the provided objectives document, with responses due by 2:00 PM EST on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. This is a preliminary notification for planning, and a Draft RFP is forthcoming.