REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI): Atmospheric Microwave Radiometry Observations for NASA FALCON
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) Science Mission Directorate (SMD) is soliciting information through a Request for Information (RFI) on low-cost concepts for the development, launch, and operations of a microwave radiometer component. This radiometer is intended to fly in formation with the Fleet for the Atmosphere Linking Commercial Observations with NASA (FALCON) constellation. NASA is specifically targeting commercially owned and operated capabilities. Responses are due by April 23, 2026.
Scope of Work
This RFI seeks recommendations on effective approaches to fully leverage commercial capabilities for the instrument, supporting platform, launch, and operations. Concepts should be executable and realistically launch by Quarter 3 Fiscal Year 2029. Responses should address orbital parameters (e.g., 400-550 km altitude, sun-synchronous and mid-inclination ~55 deg) and instrument parameters including spectral capabilities, scanning/viewing geometry, onboard calibration, and data delivery metrics. Submissions must quantify any dependencies or limitations based on satellite parameters.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (broad solicitation)
- Response Due: April 23, 2026
- Published: March 24, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Responses are limited to 10 pages (excluding references) and must be submitted electronically via the NASA NSPIRES system. Key components of the response include Organization Information, Mission Concept Approach(es), Cost and Schedule (including a Rough Order of Magnitude cost estimate), and Additional Information. This RFI is for planning purposes only and is not a request for proposal or quotation.
Eligibility & Notes
Responses are sought broadly from industry, universities, non-profit organizations, individuals, NASA centers, FFRDCs, UARCs, other U.S. federal, state, local, and tribal government agencies, and the international community. Responses are subject to restrictions on bilateral relationships with China. NASA is interested in approaches that increase efficiency, reduce time to science, leverage commercial capabilities, encourage partnerships, and rely on industry for end-to-end mission execution. Potential arrangements include data buy, co-funding technology development, or creating capability for commercial venture demonstration.
Contact Information
- Primary: Will McCarty – AOS-Cloud Program Scientist (will.mccarty@nasa.gov)
- Secondary: Beth Weinstein, Earth Science Division, Science Mission Directorate, NASA (beth.e.weinstein@nasa.gov)