Surface LIDAR Requirements for Extraterrestrial Rovers

NASA's Johnson Space Center is seeking industry input through a Request for Information (RFI) regarding Surface LIDAR Requirements for Extraterrestrial Rovers designed to support the Artemis Program's lunar exploration and future Martian missions. The procurement focuses on developing advanced LIDAR sensors for rover navigation in challenging environments, particularly at the lunar South Pole where traditional camera-based navigation is hindered by low sun angles, long shadows, and lack of distinctive landmarks. The RFI requests detailed feedback on key driving requirements (KDRs) and key performance parameters (KPPs), mission architectures, sensor use cases, technological limitations, preferred LIDAR modalities, and procurement considerations. NASA will use the industry responses to develop a testing roadmap and industry engagement strategy, with plans for representative testing on low-speed platforms in calendar year 2026 and high-speed platforms in calendar year 2027. Responses to the RFI are due by February 5, 2026, and while late submissions are allowed, they are not encouraged.

This pre-solicitation notice includes no set-aside designation, meaning it is open to all qualified contractors regardless of socioeconomic status, though NASA particularly welcomes responses from small businesses across all socioeconomic categories. No incumbent contractors, award values, or specific procurement quantities are identified in the available documentation. The RFI represents an early-stage information-gathering initiative rather than a binding commitment to award a contract, with NASA planning to use the collected data to inform future solicitations, potentially including a representative industry workshop and public release of test data. The opportunity is categorized under NAICS code 334511 (Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing) and PSC code 6640 (Laboratory Equipment and Supplies).