STARCOM Azimuth Flight Service

Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI seeks information on industry capabilities to provide parabolic flight services for the U.S. Space Force (USSF) Azimuth program. The Azimuth program is a summer space education and training initiative for military cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy, involving academics, industry visits, and simulated space environments, including microgravity flights. This RFI aims to gauge industry interest, identify potential sources (including small businesses), and gather information to finalize future solicitation documents. No solicitation currently exists.

• Parabolic flight services originating from and returning to Colorado Springs airport (KCOS).

• Ability to simulate lunar, Martian, and microgravity environments.

• Potential for innovative approaches using aircraft platforms not traditionally used for parabolic flights (e.g., business jets, experimental aircraft, autonomous systems).

• Flexible, scalable, and novel operational concepts for expanded access to reduced-gravity environments.

• Anticipated performance period: One (1) year base period plus three (3) option periods (four years total) for flights during summers.

• A draft Performance Work Statement (PWS) is provided for detailed requirements.

• Responses are requested by March 18, 2026, 1400 hours EST.

• Submit responses via email to kelly.parker.6@spaceforce.mil and HQ.STARCOM.PK@spaceforce.mil.

• Responses should be on company letterhead and include: date, point of contact, address, phone, email, DUNS number, and CAGE code.

• Maximum response length: 20 pages (single-spaced, Times New Roman 12pt or equivalent).

• Include a copy of FAA certifications.

• Specific questions regarding business model, aircraft availability, certifications (FAR Part 121, IASA), microgravity experience, safety protocols, and PWS feedback are requested.

• The government is interested in the availability of businesses, including small businesses.

• Respondents are advised that the Government will not pay for any information or administrative costs incurred in response to this RFI.

• Questions regarding this RFI must be submitted by February 25, 2026, via email to the addresses above.

• Responses to questions are expected on or about February 26, 2026.

• Not responding does not preclude participation in any future solicitation.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This Performance Work Statement (PWS) outlines the requirements for contractor support of the Azimuth program, a United States Space Force (USSF) initiative aimed at providing future Guardians with foundational knowledge, hands-on experience, and mission-focused training in the space domain. The program's mission is to inspire and educate cadets and midshipmen through simulated zero, lunar, and Martian gravity environments.

The contractor shall provide non-personal services for parabolic flights to simulate varying gravitational environments for Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), United States Military Academy (USMA), United States Air Force Academy (USAFA), and United States Naval Academy (USNA) participants. Services include providing aircraft, aircraft systems support, pilots, maintenance, support equipment, and program/quality/contract management.

• Flight Profile: Each flight must consist of fifteen (15) parabolas (mix of Martian, Lunar, Zero-gravity).

• Student Capacity: Approximately twenty-five (25) students per flight.

• Flight Duration: Approximately four (4) hours per flight.

• Safety: Adherence to highest industry safety standards and FAA regulations.

• Deliverables: Properly fitted flight suits for students, commemorative flight completion pins, professional photography and videography (with student access to edited media), qualified flight crew and support staff.

• Scheduling: Minimum lead time for flight scheduling to be specified by the government.

• Period: Base of one year with four one-year options. Twelve (12) flights per performance period.

• Place: Colorado Springs Airport (COS).

• Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs): Contractor must ensure all personnel are bound by NDAs to protect sensitive information.

• Government Furnished Property (GFP): None will be provided; the contractor is responsible for all personnel, equipment, and resources.

• Inspection: Government will inspect services for compliance, including pre-flight, in-flight, post-flight debriefings, and review of deliverables.