AFP FOR LEASE OF LAND AND BUILDING Located at LC-48 (NASA-KSC)
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is soliciting proposals for the lease of Launch Complex 48 (LC-48), an underutilized federal property, to a site operator. This opportunity aims to establish a multi-user launch complex for small-class launch vehicles, covering approximately 127.66 acres for a term of up to 50 years. Proposals are due by April 10, 2026, at 5 PM ET.
Purpose & Scope
NASA KSC seeks a site operator to manage and operate the entire multi-user LC-48 site, coordinating all activities with NASA and U.S. Space Force operations. LC-48 is designed to support the growth of the small-class launch vehicle industry and may accommodate landings. The leased area includes LC-48 North (developed launch site, ~10.85 acres) and LC-48 Undeveloped (vacant land, ~116.8 acres). The selected operator will be responsible for developing the site at their own expense, with NASA approval, and must detail a concept of operations including commercial launch/landing services, ground systems architecture, and infrastructure plans.
Contract Details
This is a lease agreement, not a Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)-bound contract, with a term of up to 50 years, including renewal periods. The property is offered in "as is, where is" condition.
- Base Rent:
- LC-48 North: $79,384.95 - $100,554.27 annually
- LC-48 Undeveloped: $487.50 - $617.50 per acre annually
- Escalation: Annual escalation rate of 3-4%.
- Support Services: Additional fees apply, currently 15.9% of Base Rent.
- Specialized Services: Proposers may obtain specialized KSC services (e.g., Spaceport Operations and Integration support) on a reimbursable basis through a separate Reimbursable Space Act Agreement (RSAA).
Eligibility & Set-Aside
This opportunity is open to "United States Commercial Providers" as defined in 51 U.S.C. § 50101(7) and U.S. Persons (including State and Federal Agencies). There is no specific set-aside designation. Ineligible entities include those debarred, suspended, or on certain government watchlists.
Submission & Evaluation
- Proposals Due: April 10, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET. Submissions must be electronic in PDF format, limited to 45 pages (excluding exhibits and financial documents).
- Questions Due: February 6, 2026.
- Evaluation Factors: Business Approach, Technical Approach, Base Rent, and Financial Capability/Viability. NASA will favor proposals offering higher Base Rent and those proposing multi-user operations.
Key Considerations
Bidders must review the Model Enhanced Use Lease (EUL) for detailed operational, financial, and regulatory requirements, including environmental compliance (e.g., LEED Silver for improvements), safety protocols, and property restoration responsibilities. The Environmental Assessment (EA) provides crucial context on potential environmental impacts. Access to LC-48 is through KSC's secured perimeter, requiring adherence to NASA's badging, background investigation, and foreign national access procedures.