# 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 to develop commercial Ka-band space-relay capabilities compatible with NASA’s existing relay infrastructure. The awards have maximum potential values of $460.9 million, $264.3 million, and $340.4 million, respectively, including options; the initial funded amounts were not disclosed, and the ceilings are not guaranteed spending. Initial work runs through May 3, 2027, with priced options extending through 2029 and potential additional funding for in-orbit demonstrations. The initiative supports NASA’s planned transition from its TDRS network toward commercial relay services, creating opportunities in space communications, integration, operations, and related services.

- **Why this matters:** The three awards establish multiple paths for commercial providers to demonstrate relay capabilities, while actual contract revenue will depend on options exercised, task orders, and additional funding.
- Companies pursuing supporting work can evaluate opportunities in spacecraft compatibility, ground and launch services, system integration, operations, and potential in-orbit demonstrations.
- Contractors should account for the initial work period and option structure when planning teaming, investment, and delivery capacity; the signals do not disclose initial funded amounts.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** November 06, 2026

### Government Entities
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (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