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) to gather concepts for low-cost atmospheric microwave radiometry observations for the NASA FALCON constellation. NASA is targeting commercially owned and operated radiometer capabilities. Responses are due by May 7, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
NASA seeks information on concepts for the development, launch, and operations of a radiometer component to fly in formation with the Fleet for the Atmosphere Linking Commercial Observations with NASA (FALCON). The RFI emphasizes leveraging commercial capabilities for the instrument, supporting platform, launch, and operations.
Key Requirements / Desired Capabilities
- Concepts should be executable and realistically launch by Quarter 3 Fiscal Year 2029.
- Consider orbital parameters: altitude range of 400-550 km and inclination (sun-synchronous and mid-inclination ~55 deg).
- Address instrument parameters including spectral capabilities, scanning/viewing geometry, onboard calibration, data delivery metrics, and maturity.
- Submissions must quantify any dependencies or limitations on instrument observations and operations based on satellite parameters.
Submission Details
- Responses are due by May 7, 2026.
- Submissions must be electronic via the NASA NSPIRES system.
- Responses are limited to 10 pages (excluding references).
- Key components of the response include: Organization Information, Mission Concept Approach(es), Cost and Schedule (ROM cost estimate), and Additional Information.
- This RFI is for planning purposes only and is not a request for proposal or quotation.
Eligibility & Restrictions
- Responses are sought broadly from industry, universities, non-profit organizations, NASA centers, FFRDCs, UARCs, government agencies, and the international community.
- Responses are subject to restrictions placed on NASA by Section 526 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, prohibiting bilateral relationships with China.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Response Due: May 7, 2026
- Published Date: April 20, 2026
- Set-Aside: None specified (RFI)
Additional Notes
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 only, co-funding technology development with data as a service, or creating capability for a commercial venture demonstration.