Space Exploration Network and Services Evolution (SENSE) Extension

NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center has published a Special Notice on March 20, 2026, announcing a Justification for Other than Full and Open Competition (JOFOC) for the extension of the Space Exploration Network Services and Evolution (SENSE) contract 80GSFC19C0063. This notice is posted in compliance with FAR 6.305(d) requirements for non-competitive contract actions. The existing contract with Peraton Inc. has been in effect since October 1, 2019, and is currently set to expire on March 31, 2026. NASA is seeking to extend this contract for an additional 18 months to maintain operational continuity while a follow-on competitive procurement for the United Network and Navigation Operations (UN2O) contract is completed. The extension is justified based on the contractor's unique qualifications and the critical nature of the services being provided.

The SENSE contract extension supports continuous operations and maintenance of NASA's space-based and ground-based networks, including the Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS) system and associated ground infrastructure that provide essential communications services for critical missions such as the International Space Station and Moon to Mars initiatives. The estimated value of extension task orders is approximately $660 million, which will remain within the current $1.8 billion maximum contract value. Key performance locations include NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, White Sands Complex, Guam Remote Station, Wallops Ground Station, and other strategic facilities. A synopsis was previously published on Sam.gov on January 15, 2026, with the synopsis period closing on January 30, 2026 and receiving no responses. The Contracting Officer certified fair and reasonable pricing on February 18, 2026, and the comment period for this Special Notice closes on April 19, 2026.