Partnering Opportunity for the Surface Mobility Lidar (SML)
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) Langley Research Center (LaRC) is soliciting information from potential partners for proposal development related to the Surface Mobility Lidar (SML). This initiative responds to an Early Career Initiative (ECI) sponsored by NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD).
Scope of Work
NASA LaRC seeks partners to develop a 2D detector array and Readout Integrated Circuit (ROIC) capable of measuring Time-of-Flight of photons at 20 Hz or higher, with measurement noise of 2.5 cm or better per pixel. The detector requires a contrast of 10 dB or larger, with 20 dB preferred dynamic range. A rectangular aspect ratio (e.g., 64x256) is preferred, or at least 128x128 pixels for square. Partners must deliver a packaged camera (detector, ROIC, lens mount, control electronics) with trigger output and time reference input within 16 months or less. The design must be suitable for extended operation in a harsh lunar environment, focusing on size reduction for rover integration.
Partner Requirements
Ideal partners must have experience in space-flight instrument development and demonstrate capabilities in advancing low Technology Readiness Level (TRL) technologies to TRL 5 or higher. Partners should provide expertise in the technical challenge, possess necessary personnel and facilities for testing, and may contribute in-kind work or resources. This partnering opportunity does not guarantee award or reimbursement for information submitted.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Special Notice (Partnering Opportunity)
- Set-Aside: None specified (Open to all U.S. and non-U.S. organizations)
- Response Due: February 20, 2026, by 4:30 PM EDT
- Published: January 29, 2026
- Anticipated Outcome: Selected partners will develop proposals for potential ECI projects, potentially leading to contracts or agreements for proposed tasks.
Evaluation Criteria
Partner selections will be based on the following, in order of importance:
- Expertise: Relevant to detector/ROIC development, evaluation, and spaceflight technology.
- Technology Solutions and Technical Approach: Evaluation of proposed solution and implementation techniques against specifications.
- Costs: Reasonable and realistic cost estimates for the technology solution.
- Amenable to Collaborative Solutions: Intent to collaborate with NASA LaRC personnel.
- Facilities: Availability of facilities for development, fabrication, testing, and analysis.
Response Instructions
Submit a capability statement of no more than five (5) pages (exclusive of resumes and cover page) in 12-point font with 1-inch margins. A facilities summary and cost tables (not exceeding three pages) can be submitted separately. Assume a fixed-price opportunity with a cost cap of $350,000 per year. Responses must address all evaluation criteria and indicate if the requirement is a commercial item. Submit electronically to esther.lee@nasa.gov and aram.gragossian@nasa.gov.
Additional Notes
This synopsis is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a commitment by the Government. NASA will not pay for information solicited or proposal preparation costs. Respondents deemed fully qualified will be considered for resultant partnering selections.