Private Astronaut Mission (PAM) Commander Eligibility Update
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
NASA Johnson Space Center has issued a Special Notice regarding an update to the Private Astronaut Mission (PAM) Commander eligibility requirements. This change broadens the pool of eligible candidates by removing specific prior astronaut experience mandates, aiming to better align with evolving commercial space capabilities and foster a competitive commercial spaceflight market. This notice is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation.
Scope of Change
NASA is removing the requirement that a PAM Commander must be a former NASA (U.S.) flown Government astronaut with U.S. Operating Segment (USOS) experience. Additionally, the requirement for a PAM Commander Alternate to be a "current (non-NASA) or former flown astronaut with U.S. Operating Segment (USOS) experience" is also being removed. These changes will result in contract modifications for existing PAM awardees.
Purpose
The policy change is designed to accommodate the evolving commercial capabilities supporting low Earth orbit (LEO) missions. By broadening eligibility, NASA seeks to ensure the PAM framework continues to facilitate a robust and competitive commercial spaceflight marketplace.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Special Notice (Informational)
- Published: March 25, 2026
- Informational Period Ends: April 6, 2026
Additional Notes
This announcement is purely informational. It does not constitute a solicitation, and no proposals are being requested at this time. Interested parties should note this update for future planning and understanding of NASA's evolving commercial space policies.