# NASA Awards Ka-Band Relay Contracts

On November 4, 2026, NASA selected Viasat, Astranis Space Technologies, and Global Enterprise Solutions for firm-fixed-price awards under the NextSTEP-3 Appendix E NEXUS initiative. The companies will develop commercial Ka-band space-relay capabilities compatible with NASA’s existing relay infrastructure, with maximum potential values of **$460.9 million**, $264.3 million, and $340.4 million, respectively. Initial work runs through May 3, 2027, with priced options extending through 2029 and possible funding for in-orbit demonstrations; the ceilings are not guaranteed spending, as actual value depends on options and additional funding.

- The awards create opportunities for contractors supporting satellite and ground systems, integration, launch, operations, and service management as NASA works toward supplementing its TDRS network with commercial relay services.
- Companies should distinguish the announced maximum values from funded work and evaluate where their capabilities fit into each awardee’s development and demonstration efforts.
- The initial work period is underway and runs through May 3, 2027; follow-on phases and in-orbit demonstrations may create additional competition and teaming opportunities through 2029.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** November 09, 2026

### Government Entities
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
- NASA Space Communications and Navigation Program (SCaN)

### Vendors
- Viasat Inc. (awardee)
- Astranis Space Technologies Corp. (awardee)
- Global Enterprise Solutions Inc. (awardee)

### Sources
- [$VSAT Viasat has been awarded a $460.9 million NASA contract to develop Ka-band space relay capability concepts. https://t.co/vuU213nxQ8](https://x.com/TradeHawk/status/2118044936784474480) - twitter-agency
- [$VSAT #Space #Contract — Viasat won a NASA contract worth up to $460.9M. The ceiling is not booked revenue; task orders set the actual amount.
https://t.co/NKxUWyuhvE](https://x.com/merlin_trader/status/2118818788942422190) - twitter-agency
- [News: $VSAT Awarded Phase 1 Contract Under NASA Network Extension for User Continuity and Sustainability (NEXUS) Initiative
https://t.co/c7tEl4Tn6m](https://x.com/SpaceInvestor_/status/2119799286531793060) - twitter-agency