NASA issues long-awaited call to industry for private space stations
Summary
NASA issued a formal call to the US commercial space industry to develop private space stations in low Earth orbit to succeed the ISS by around 2030. The 360-page request for proposals outlines a multi-phase program with Phase 1 awarding at least two contracts and a minimum of $100 million for winners, Phase 2 funding development and certification, and Phase 3 purchases of NASA crewed missions. NASA also plans to assist with transportation for initial NASA missions and has priced crew and cargo flights, signaling strong government backing for private LEO infrastructure.