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 issuing a Request for Information (RFI) for Atmospheric Microwave Radiometry Observations to support its FALCON (Fleet for the Atmosphere Linking Commercial Observations with NASA) initiative. NASA seeks low-cost concepts for the development, launch, and operations of a commercially owned and operated microwave radiometer component to fly in formation with the NASA constellation. Responses are due by May 14, 2026.
Scope of Work
This RFI targets concepts that fully leverage commercial capabilities for the instrument, supporting platform, launch, and operations. NASA is interested in approaches that increase efficiency, reduce time to science, encourage partnerships, and rely on industry for end-to-end mission execution. Potential arrangements include data buy, co-funding technology development with data as a service, or creating capability for a commercial venture demonstration.
Key Requirements / Deliverables
- Concepts should be executable and realistically launch by Quarter 3 Fiscal Year 2029.
- Consider orbital parameters: altitude range (400-550 km) and inclination (sun-synchronous and mid-inclination ~55 deg).
- Address instrument parameters: spectral capabilities, scanning/viewing geometry, onboard calibration, data delivery metrics, and maturity.
- Quantify any dependencies or limitations on instrument observations and operations based on satellite parameters.
Submission & Evaluation
- Responses are due by May 14, 2026.
- Submissions must be electronic via the NASA NSPIRES system.
- Responses are limited to 10 pages (excluding references).
- Key components include Organization Information, Mission Concept Approach(es), Cost and Schedule (ROM estimate), and Additional Information.
- This RFI is for planning purposes only and is not a request for proposal or quotation.
Eligibility / Set-Aside
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, as detailed in Section 526 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Response Due: May 14, 2026
- Published: April 20, 2026 (Amendment 0001 extending due date published)
- Office: NASA HEADQUARTERS
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)