This is a draft solicitation notice for NASA's NextSTEP-3 Appendix B, focusing on Moon to Mars architectural studies. The final solicitation is anticipated for release on or about January 30, 2026. The program seeks to establish a Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC) for recurring, directed-topic calls and will also include open-topic opportunities for standalone contracts. The first directed-topic calls are anticipated to focus on integrated lunar surface power infrastructure and Mars crew transportation concepts. An Industry Day was held on January 22, 2026, with materials available online.

This solicitation is currently on hold until further notice, and offerors must monitor for its reissuance. NASA seeks proposals for Moon to Mars architectural studies, targeting several calls per year on topics like infrastructure and habitation. The agency intends to establish a Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC) for directed-topic calls, while also offering open-topic opportunities for standalone contracts to any qualified organization. All awards will be Firm-Fixed Price and subject to standard federal acquisition regulations. Questions and intent to submit a proposal must be communicated to the specified Contracting Officer by 5:00 p.m. Central Time on February 6, 2026.

NASA is seeking partners for recurring architectural studies supporting Moon to Mars missions, focusing on infrastructure, transportation, habitation, and science. The agency plans to establish a Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC), where only MATOC holders can compete for directed-topic calls issued several times per year. It also establishes open-topic opportunities for any qualified organization to propose innovative solutions for standalone contracts. The contract vehicle involves Firm-Fixed Price Task Orders with performance-based milestone payments. All awards will be subject to standard federal and NASA acquisition regulations.

This is a draft solicitation for NASA's NextSTEP-3 Appendix B program, seeking industry partners for recurring Moon to Mars architectural studies. The final solicitation is anticipated for release on or about January 30, 2026. It will establish a Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC) for directed-topic calls and also include open-topic opportunities for standalone contracts. The first directed-topic calls are anticipated to focus on integrated lunar surface power infrastructure and Mars crew transportation concepts. The solicitation will be open to U.S. institutions only, excluding NASA civil servants and certain federally affiliated centers from being prime contractors.