Award
Definitive Contract #80MSFC26C0004
Definitive Contract for Lunar Hazard Assessment Instrument by University of Colorado
Buyer
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Award Amount
$24,833,705.00
Ceiling
$24,833,705.00
Period of Performance
Apr 06, 2026 – Jun 30, 2029
Identifier
80MSFC26C0004
NAICS
541715
This definitive contract has been awarded to the Regents of the University of Colorado, a prominent research institution specializing in space science and instrumentation, to develop DUSTER, an advanced instrument for measuring environmental hazards at the lunar south pole. DUSTER is designed to detect dust, plasma, micrometeoroid impacts, and lander ejecta, providing critical data essential for ensuring the safety and success of NASA's Artemis missions aimed at lunar exploration. The contract covers the full scope of work including the design, development, and eventual deployment of this measurement technology. Its significance lies in addressing key risks associated with lunar surface conditions that could affect both equipment and crew. Awarded competitively, this substantial multi-year agreement spans a performance period from 2026 to 2029, with work primarily conducted in Boulder, Colorado. The contract supports NASA's broader mission to advance human space exploration by improving understanding of lunar environmental hazards.
Description
DUSTER WILL MEASURE DUST, PLASMA, MICROMETEOROID IMPACTS, AND LANDER EJECTA AT THE LUNAR SOUTH POLE TO ASSESS HAZARDS FOR ARTEMIS MISSIONS.