NASA/US Companies Collaboration for Commercial Space Technologies Advancement

NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD is partnering up with US based companies in order to develop space technologies that will advance the commercial space sector far beyond what is currently projected. This announcement comes under the collaborative opportunity (ACO) solicitation which will provide technical expertise as well as testing facilities by NASA and the selected companies. This effort in order to mature technologies, aerospace hardware and software to enhance space systems including other closely related subsystems. Leveraging NASA’s unique engineering expertise and utilizing their state of the art testing facilities will propel the research and development of more reliable electronics and improve communications for in-space propulsion technology.

Steve Jurczyk, NASA Washington STMD associate administrator, has expressed that he believes this announcement of collaborative opportunity (ACO) solicitation will continue to build upon the NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) strategy to align NASA’s strategic long-term goals with the requirement to advance commercial space capabilities, along with evolved aircraft engine parts. The expected collaboration will greatly reduce cost of the development of these technologies and will increase the infusion of emerging commercial space system capabilities for space missions as well. With the deadline to submit mandatory preliminary proposals due by March 15th, time is running out as the final proposals will have to be submitted no later than May 31st.