Nasa launch services (NLS) II contracts have been awarded to four firms to provide launch services for the agency’s planetary, Earth-observing, exploration and scientific satellites.
Lockheed Martin, Orbital Sciences, SpaceX and United Launch Services have been selected for the NLS II contracts over a ten-year period.
Nasa can order a maximum of 70 launch services missions with a maximum cumulative potential contract value of $15bn.
Under the contracts, the launch service providers will provide for a minimum capability of delivering payloads weighing about 550lb or more to a minimum 124-mile-high circular orbit with a launch inclination of 28.5°.
The provider also may offer a range of vehicles to Nasa to meet higher payload weight and orbit requirements.
The contract also has an annual opportunity for additional providers to submit proposals introducing launch services not available at the time of award, if they meet the minimum contract requirements.
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By GlobalDataUnder the contract, Nasa will also provide launch services to other government agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.