NASA Crew Exploration Vehicle Upper Stage Request for Information Update

June 2006

The planning for the development and production of the Crew Launch Vehicle (CLV) Upper Stage continues and the following information is provided to assist Industry in planning for upcoming acquisitions.

First, the Upper Stage Production Request for Proposal (RFP) and subsequent award schedule is unchanged.

After careful internal review, as well as consideration of the inputs received from Industry, the Avionics Production contract schedule has been revised to include production support and delivery of the first flight unit in the contract. This approach will require a solicitation release in the spring of 2007 with award of the contract in the fall. The attached chart depicts this change in the Upper Stage Integrated Roadmap.

As presented at the Industry Day at the Michoud Assembly Facility, advanced development component activities are on-going. Glenn Research Center has released a Sources Sought Synopsis regarding the potential acquisition for Electro-Mechanical Actuators and is planning a solicitation for development work on batteries. MSFC has issued a synopsis for Reaction Control System Thruster development and is planning additional solicitations in areas such as the Main Propulsion System’s pre-valves, LOX Recirculation Pumps, LH2 Recirculation pumps, and H2 and GOX vent and Relief Valves. Interested parties should continue to monitor the NASA Acquisition Internet Service (NAIS) website for advanced development opportunities.

A separate link has been established through the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD) website to disseminate technical and programmatic information. Some of the information that will be posted may be draft documents or subject to on-going trades and studies with the final solicitations ultimately taking precedent over these documents. However, the information that is provided now is to assist Industry in planning and understanding the approach and technical content of the Upper Stage design and development. Note that many documents will be subject to export control and a special account is required for access (instructions are included at the site). The website is http://exploration@nasa.gov; then choose “Acquisition Portal”, and then the link to “Information for Potential CLV Partners”. Note the RFP folder at that link will not be populated until around the release of the Draft RFP scheduled for November of 2006.

Any questions can be sent to Earl Pendley, phone 256-544-2949, or e-mail at George.E.Pendley@nasa.gov.