NASA seeks proposals for new aerospace power testing laboratory

(SpaceEnergy) NASA has invited industry proposals for the design and construction of a new Aerospace Power Systems Laboratory at its Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio, to support future space exploration missions.

The agency announced the Phase 1 procurement on 6 October, seeking a contractor to deliver laboratory facilities, associated infrastructure, site works and supporting systems.

NASA said the development would provide modern testing capabilities for power systems research and development.

The facility is intended to support the agency's current and future mission requirements, including its Artemis programme, planned lunar base infrastructure and exploration of Mars and beyond.

Glenn Research Center conducts research into spacecraft power generation, energy conversion, electrical systems and propulsion technologies.

The new laboratory would expand the centre's infrastructure for developing and testing aerospace power systems.

NASA has established a deadline of 30 October 2026 for Phase 1 proposals.

The procurement will proceed through a full and open competition, with an anticipated contract award date of 16 December 2026.

The selected contractor will undertake work at NASA Glenn and its own facilities.

NASA has not disclosed the project's estimated construction cost, laboratory floor area, electrical testing capacity or expected operational date.

The announcement represents the opening of a formal procurement process rather than a construction contract award.