In 2026, NASA issued a draft Broad Agency Announcement under NextSTEP-3 Appendix A to accelerate development of critical lunar surface and cislunar technologies. The initiative focuses on closing technology gaps in vertical solar arrays, in-situ resource utilization oxygen systems, Stirling radioisotope generators, in-space manufacturing tools, and advanced nanomaterials production. Funded efforts aim to mature these solutions to Technology Readiness Levels 5 to 6 via ground-based testing and risk reduction.
This solicitation distinguishes itself from other NextSTEP efforts by emphasizing early-stage research and system component development. NASA seeks technologies requiring foundational engineering maturation in controlled environments, advancing prospects for a sustained Moon Base. Industry and research organizations are invited to submit proposals aligned with these objectives.
Source & further reading
NextSTEP-3 A: Lunar Enabling Technology ↗Source published 2026-06-29. This report was prepared with AI assistance from the linked primary-source material. Claims and limitations should be checked against the original announcement or research.