NASA seeks commercial relay and navigation solutions for future Earth-orbit missions

WASHINGTON - The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is inviting the global space industry to help define the future of satellite-based communications and navigation in Earth proximity operations. Through a newly released Request for Information (RFI), NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program is seeking input from U.S. and international SATCOM providers on existing and planned space-relay capabilities that could replace aging government-owned infrastructure like the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) system.

The effort is part of NASA’s broader Communications Services Project (CSP), which aims to transition from government-owned, contractor-operated (GOCO) relay services to scalable, flexible, and commercially sourced solutions. The RFI initiates Phase 3 of the CSP and precedes a planned request for proposals (RFP) in 2027. Operational services are targeted to begin by the end of 2031, with service demonstrations scheduled as early as 2028.

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NASA is particularly focused on commercial relay solutions that can provide seamless, continuous support for missions operating below geostationary orbit. These services must deliver real-time data handling, low-latency communications, and robust coverage to meet the growing demands of science, exploration, and human spaceflight missions.

Key technology areas of interest

The RFI outlines several critical areas in which NASA is seeking industry feedback and technical input:

Commercial space-relay architectures: NASA is interested in current or future systems capable of delivering continuous communications support across a range of low Earth orbit (LEO) and near-Earth missions.

Network coverage and inter-satellite links: Seamless mission operations require robust inter-satellite connectivity and broad regional and global coverage.

Data throughput, latency, and quality of service (QoS): High bandwidth, ultra-low latency, and strong reliability are necessary for mission success, particularly during dynamic operations.

Tracking and navigation services: Solutions that can support high-precision positioning and timing functions for advanced science and exploration missions are critical.

Launch vehicle telemetry and tracking: Providers must be capable of delivering low-latency, high-reliability telemetry, tracking, and control (TT&C) support during the ascent phase—a period of heightened risk and communications demand.

Spacecraft terminals and SWaP considerations: NASA seeks information on compatible terminal hardware with emphasis on Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) characteristics for integration into current and future spacecraft designs.

Cybersecurity and interoperability: All solutions must comply with NASA and broader U.S. government standards for cybersecurity and interoperability.

Business models and cost: Respondents are encouraged to propose viable cost structures and business models that support NASA’s transition from a government-owned relay architecture to a commercial one.

Scalability and emerging technologies: The agency is also looking for technologies with long-term viability that can evolve alongside NASA’s increasingly sophisticated mission requirements.

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NASA has classified its service needs into two categories: Direct Access Services and File Delivery Services, which are further defined by Nominal and Critical Provisioning. Direct Access supports telemetry and command without precoordination and is typically used for initial contact and anomaly resolution. File Delivery Services, by contrast, require spacecraft coordination and support higher data volumes. Critical Provisioning services are defined by their urgency and mission-critical nature, requiring near-instantaneous availability during contingency or time-sensitive operations.

NASA is also considering limited backward-compatible TDRS services through 2035 to ensure continuity of support for legacy missions during the transition period.

Request for documentation and industry participation

As part of this RFI, NASA encourages companies to submit supplemental documentation, such as Interface Control Documents (ICDs), Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and user guides. While proprietary or confidential information will be protected, respondents are also urged to submit material that can be shared openly with NASA's mission community to accelerate readiness and adoption.

NASA says this RFI marks a strategic shift toward a new space communications paradigm, where NASA is one of many customers purchasing data as a service from an increasingly capable commercial sector. It also reflects a broader policy direction from the U.S. government to reduce reliance on bespoke federal infrastructure and stimulate innovation in the private space economy.

How to Respond

Interested parties should direct questions to Contracting Officer Hunter Butkovic at [email protected] using the subject line: "Commercial Space-Relay Communication and Navigation Services – [Company Name]"

Questions must be submitted by the close of business on 13 June 2025 and will be answered individually via email. NASA will not publish responses publicly. Additional information is available at https://sam.gov/opp/b7eb04d10b1147fbad3dc57ffcf0f3e8/view.