NASA released its final Request for Proposals on Friday, Oct. 9, inviting industry to submit plans for the next generation of commercial space stations in low Earth orbit, the agency announced. The solicitation is part of NASA's effort to maintain a sustained American presence in low Earth orbit after the International Space Station retires, according to Administrator Jared Isaacman.

Isaacman said NASA will still need a place for research, technology development, crew training and preparation for missions to the Moon and Mars. He said commercial stations may provide that capability while creating opportunities for American industry, adding that "the economics ultimately have to work" and that the agency wants credible plans, strong technical execution and companies prepared to invest.

NASA said the solicitation covers designing, building, testing, certifying and operating commercial destinations that offer end-to-end destination and transportation services for human spaceflight. The agency plans firm-fixed-price, multi-award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contracts and intends to select two or more contractors through early development, followed by a competitive task order for final design, testing, evaluation, certification and services.

Proposals are due Tuesday, Dec. 8, with contract awards expected in spring 2027. NASA said the step follows two Requests for Information in March, a draft Request for Proposals in July, and an industry day with one-on-one meetings.