The Crew and Thermal Systems Division's Space Suit and Crew Survival Systems Branch is requesting the build of a mold and delivery of a prototype for an injection molded pressure bubble for future spacesuit designs.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Shared Services Center has published a sole source Special Notice for the design and manufacturing of an injection-molded pressure bubble for the xEMU (Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit) spacesuit. This procurement is classified as a sole source requirement under FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i) and is directed toward a single vendor based on unique technical capabilities. The notice was posted on December 18, 2025, and represents NASA's Crew and Thermal Systems Division's need for advanced manufacturing capabilities in the aerospace hardware sector. The contract will be performed at NASA Johnson Space Center and falls under NAICS code 332510 (Hardware Manufacturing). This opportunity addresses critical needs for next-generation spacesuit development for future exploration missions.

The primary objective of this procurement is to procure a complete mold and deliver five high-quality prototype pressure bubbles meeting strict optical and structural specifications within six months of contract award. Key technical requirements include a hemi-ellipsoid helmet with inner dimensions of 10" x 13", minimum wall thickness of 0.075 inches, and stringent optical quality standards for the vision area, along with compliance with pressure load and micro-gravity performance criteria. Interested organizations must submit written capability statements and qualifications to Shanna Patterson no later than 7 a.m. Central Standard Time on December 22, 2025, with responses evaluated to determine whether the procurement will proceed competitively. Although this is presently designated as a sole source acquisition, NASA retains discretionary authority to convert this to a competitive procurement based on capability responses received. Contractors should be prepared to demonstrate proprietary expertise in complex helmet mold design, polycarbonate material molding proficiency, and relevant experience with spacesuit helmet manufacturing to be considered viable alternatives.