DSpARCSummary.pdf

NASA Deep Space Autonomous Robotics Challenge: Call for Host Facility Interest

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Research Technology Mission Directorate has contracted the Institute of Competition Sciences to implement the NASA Deep Space Autonomous Robotics Challenge (DSpARC).

Advancing deep-space exploration requires groundbreaking software solutions to manage multi-agent robotic systems tasked with preparing lunar and Martian surface infrastructure before astronaut crews arrive. While initial challenge phases test capabilities within realistic digital twin environments, transitioning autonomous software from simulation to physical reality requires dedicated operational spaces to evaluate performance under controlled real-world conditions. To support this critical bridge from simulation to reality, NASA is seeking information from interested academic institutions, private organizations, municipalities, and industry partners capable of providing a physical testing footprint in the United States for participating industry, startup, and faculty-led teams.

This opportunity offers the prospective host facility high-visibility engagement with premier robotics innovators and national space exploration initiatives. The selected host facility will work alongside visiting NASA subject matter experts, evaluation leads, and top-tier challenge teams competing for a share of up to $5 million in total prizes. Additionally, the host facility will serve as the backdrop for a key technology demonstration milestone, featuring opportunities for guest speaker engagements, press release inclusion, and direct networking with participating teams, agency leadership, and prospective industry partners.

NASA anticipates conducting these physical evaluations over a consecutive three (3) to six (6) month period during late Spring and early Summer 2028. Candidate host facilities must meet the following baseline space and technical criteria:

1. An indoor, climate-controlled footprint in the United States offering a minimum continuous surface area of 50 feet by 50 feet.

2. A flat or substantially flat surface suitable for baseline mobile robotics and multi-agent ground operations.

3. Access to standard electrical utilities (for equipment charging and support hardware) and reliable Wi-Fi network connectivity.

4. Established facility access controls and security protocols to safeguard visiting hardware, software assets, and personnel.

Please note that this effort is structured as a non-reimbursable partnership (such as a Space Act Agreement), and NASA has not allocated funding to lease or purchase facility space. Interested entities with suitable facilities who are inspired to support this effort are invited to submit a Capability Package via SAM.gov. Submissions must be compiled into a single PDF document not exceeding three (3) pages, and should include a brief facility overview, high-resolution site photographs showcasing the proposed 50’ x 50’ footprint, a layout schematic, details on facility security protocols, and target site availability windows between February and August 2028.

Learn more and register for the challenge at: https://deepspaceroboticschallenge.org/

Disclaimer: This Request for Information (RFI) is issued solely for market research, information, and planning purposes. It does not constitute a Request for Proposals (RFP), Invitation for Bids (IFB), or formal solicitation, nor does it obligate the U.S. Government to issue a solicitation or execute an agreement. NASA will not reimburse respondents for any costs associated with preparing or submitting a response to this notice.

Point of Contact Emma Zemler – Research Technology Mission Directorate emma.zemler@nasa.gov https://deepspaceroboticschallenge.org/ mailto:emma.zemler@nasa.gov