Notice of Partnering Opportunity - Payloads and Research Investigations on the Surface of the Moon (“PRISM”)

Background
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is issuing a Notice of Partnering Opportunity for the Payloads and Research Investigations on the Surface of the Moon (PRISM). This initiative aims to develop and demonstrate an americium equivalent electrically heated Stirling generator technology to power scientific instruments and demonstration payloads for lunar exploration, particularly targeting the South Pole region of the Moon.

NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) is seeking partners to assist in proposal preparation for this project.

Work Details
The selected partners will support the development and flight of a suite of science-driven instruments and technology demonstration payloads. Key tasks include:
- Development, integration, and operation of lunar instruments and payloads.
- Participation in relevant flight, development, and research projects.
- Identification of a qualified point of contact to potentially serve as a co-investigator on NASA GRC-led proposals.
- Contribution to all phases of the proposed investigation including payload development, construction, integration, calibration, launch operations support, publication of results, data analysis, dissemination, and archiving.
- Specific focus on providing an americium equivalent electrically heated Stirling generator demonstration that powers instrument payloads capable of conducting science-related missions in lunar environments.

Period of Performance
The contract will be performed over a timeframe aligned with NASA's proposal submission schedule and subsequent project phases. The evaluation process is anticipated to conclude by January 13, 2026.

Place of Performance
The work will primarily be conducted for lunar missions with payloads delivered to designated locations on the lunar surface via Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) landers.