Aged TDRS system, urgent need to prepare alternative

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is procuring a new Ka-band relay service to replace the aging Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRS). NASA plans to announce a wide area notice (BAA) for the 'NEXUS (Network Extension for User Continuity and Sustainability)' project as part of the Next Generation Space Technology Exploration Partnership (NextSTEP-3) program.

According to NASA, the key goal of this procurement is to secure an end-to-end Ka-band relay service that is backward compatible with existing TDRS users and can operate for at least 15 years. This includes the space sector, ground infrastructure, launch services, integration and operational elements.

Why is this important?

This project is intended to respond to the space communications continuity crisis expected between 2029 and 2031. As TDRS satellites currently in operation reach the end of their lifespan, concerns are growing that there will be a gap in communications support for existing space missions that are difficult to modify flight hardware or convert to commercial service.

NASA emphasized that this procurement will be conducted through research and development (R&D) with private commercialization in mind, rather than a simple government contract. NASA is not expected to be the only customer, and the proposed companies are expected to present a broad range of commercial business models beyond NASA.

The procurement method is carried out in a staged competition structure. We plan to initially sign firm fixed price (FFP) contracts with several companies and then gradually select them based on proven performance, technical reliability, and commercial feasibility. There are no limitations to the proposed satellite on-orbit solutions and should include all elements necessary for the development and operation of end-to-end relay service capabilities, including the space sector, launch services, ground and network infrastructure, and service operations and maintenance.

NASA plans to use the empirical results, technical data, and operational insights obtained through this BAA to establish future operational service procurement strategies. This demonstrates NASA's strategic approach to maintaining full and open competition for future operational services while accelerating the maturation of commercially viable capabilities through competitive research and demonstration.