Mass Spectrometer observing lunar operations (MSolo) Gas Analysis Instrument Concepts and Models
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The National Aeronautics And Space Administration (NASA) Kennedy Space Center has issued a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential partners and innovative applications for the Mass Spectrometer observing lunar operations (MSolo) instrument. This RFI seeks to assess technical solutions, operational concepts, and commercial models for rapid infusion into upcoming lunar missions. Responses are due August 3, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
NASA KSC is conducting market research to maximize the scientific and commercial value of the MSolo instrument. MSolo is a modified commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) quadrupole mass spectrometer, ruggedized for spaceflight, designed to identify and quantify volatiles (e.g., water, methane, helium) in the lunar environment. It has heritage from the IM-2/PRIME-1 mission and features standardized interfaces and an onboard Calibration Gas System (CGS).
Information Requested
NASA is seeking capability statements and expressions of interest covering:
- Vision for Instrument Infusion: Proposed mission concepts (lander, rover, orbital), how MSolo fits, target lunar region, volatiles of interest, concept of operations, platform integration, environmental constraints, and measurement requirements.
- Technical Integration: Feasibility of integrating MSolo with partner platforms, including payload accommodation (mass, volume, power, thermal, mechanical, data interfaces, environmental constraints), interface documentation, and any required modifications.
- Operational Strategy: Proposed Concept of Operations (ConOps), including scan rates, mission duration, and interest in real-time data streaming.
- Partnership and Commercial Models: Beneficial terms for partnerships (e.g., cost-sharing, CRADA, SAA) and interest in a technical workshop.
Potential NASA Support
NASA may offer support including furnishing MSolo units, technical and integration support, verification and validation (V&V) and environmental testing, integration and test support, operational collaboration, and data and knowledge exchange.
Submission Details
- Who May Respond: For-profit and non-profit companies, academic institutions, and small businesses. Potential prime contractors for future lunar services are encouraged.
- Format: PDF, not to exceed 10 pages.
- Content: Include company name, point of contact, and socioeconomic status. Label proprietary information.
- Submit To: Christina.L.Williams@nasa.gov
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (RFI)
- Published: June 4, 2026
- Response Due: August 3, 2026
Additional Notes
This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute an Announcement for Proposal (AFP). NASA will not pay for submitted information or reimburse response costs.