NASA is turning to the private sector for guidance as it maps out the next chapter of human activity in low Earth orbit. The agency released a draft Request for Proposals seeking feedback from American companies on the second phase of its commercial space stations strategy.
The move is designed to help ensure a smooth handoff of operations currently conducted aboard the International Space Station to privately developed and operated destinations once the ISS is retired. By soliciting industry input at the draft stage, NASA hopes to shape a final proposal that reflects real-world capabilities and concerns from potential partners.
The effort is part of a broader agency push to foster a thriving commercial marketplace in low Earth orbit, reducing NASA's direct role as an operator while keeping American astronauts — and American businesses — active in space.
NASA released the draft RFP on a Monday, giving companies an early look and a formal channel to respond before requirements are finalized. The agency has indicated that industry feedback gathered throughout the process has already influenced its current approach.
Full details on the draft proposal are available through NASA.
